Tommy Raudonikis OAM
Born in 1950 holding a football to his chest
Tommy Raudonikis came from Cowra, via Wagga, to the Wests
This rugged Magpie halfback, intimidating tough & strong
Would terrorise opponents in a career a full 13 years long.
204 games for Western suburbs from ’69 – ‘79
With socks around his ankles and murder on his mind
Then he went to Hensen Park to lead the Newtown Blues
In 37 games, a close Grand Final loss, between ’80 –’82.
24 games for New South Wales in the decade from ‘71
And 14 tests in green & gold for this fiery ‘son of a gun’
Size meant nothing to Tommy, or the numbers on blokes backs,
Big or small…he hammered in defence and in attack.
A career spent in two battling clubs, no silvertail in him.
The tougher, harder & dirtier it got, it just made Raudonikis grin
Whether playing in club games, Tests, World Cups, or for his State,
“Tom Terrific’s” passion & guts always inspired his mates.
He gave it away after 13 years, went north to Captain-Coach
Brisbane Brothers, then Norths & Ipswich with his fierce approach
Was what NSW needed…in ’97 NSW turned to him
And he responded & coached the Blues to a series Origin win.
These days you know that every year when Origin comes around
The media chase him for a quote and he never lets ‘em down
Multiple replacements, streaked hair, & nice guys make his gruff voice rasp
For Tom there’s only been one way – “PUT ‘EM ON THEIR ARSE”
Well, there might have been a slicker halfback or two in history
And there may have been faster ones on that we will agree
But there’s been few better and not one tougher since the code began
Than Tommy Raudonikis, No 7, a legend in this land.
An original composition by Lindsay Young 2007.
Download Full Bio.pdf (180.2 KB)
Once you book one of our speakers or shows consider The K Faktor a member of your event committee. Feel free to call us during your committee meetings and take advantage of our 20 years experience including over 500 shows and events.
Booked with us before? If we receive a booking from your referral we will send you a piece of memorabilia with a $500 auction value as a thank you.