Right: Turtle’s party trick: Garfield Football Club legend Neville ‘Turtle’ Bow demonstrates his revolutionary method of lining up for goal.By Glen Atwell
HAVING played more than 370 games for Garfield Football Club, Neville Bow is a legend of his time.
The 40 year old is an icon of the esteemed club and, along with his nickname Turtle, has spent every year of his football career at Garfield since juniors.
“I first got down there when I was about 11 years old,” Neville said.
“It’s been a lifetime, I suppose, but I love it down there.”
It was fellow footballer Tim Collis who coined Turtle’s famous nickname.
“Tim, whose nickname is ‘Banana’, said I looked a lot like the cartoon character Touche Turtle,” Neville said.
Touche Turtle was a swordwielding adventurer of small stature, but his brave heart and quick thinking often saw him topple larger foes.
After spending a lifetime on the football field, Neville said his brave heart might remain in the closet this season.
“As soon as I start making regular appearances at the club, I end up running out and playing the next week,” Neville laughed.
“I’m not too sure about this season. I’m undecided at the moment.”
Turtle said Garfield Football Club was bursting with interesting nicknames and a good nickname was something worth keeping.
“Turtle has survived the test of time,” he said.
“I remember the 1983 senior side – nearly every bloke had a nickname.
“Being involved with the Garfield Football Club is great,” Neville said.
But with a goalkicking routine that involves balancing the ball on his back, Turtle could soon be teaching the Garfield forward line some interesting party tricks to entertain the boisterous home crowd.
