Terence Vincent Casey

Terry Casey was a resourceful, reliable and steady fullback who had the misfortune to arrive in representative rugby during the reign of the highly talented Jim Lenehan. The safest of handlers and a more than competent goal-kicker, Casey was yet another Wallaby whose career was brought to a close by injury. Born in Leeton, Casey was educated at St. Patrick's College, Goulburn before he played his club rugby for Newcastle and eventually St George.

He debuted for New South Wales in 1963 against the 1962 Wallabies at North Sydney Oval. With Rod Phelps unavailable and Lenehan ruled out after he injured his left knee against a Western Australia XV in Perth on the way to South Africa, Casey was called into the touring squad as the only recognised goal-kicker. Surprisingly Casey did not play in the first five games as Peter Ryan was selected as the starting fullback. Far from discouraged, Casey then delivered a string of solid performances - highlighted by his bright play and all-round capabilities - to earn a Test debut in Cape Town. Australia then pulled off a second successive upset in the third Test where Casey starred with eight points (1C, 1PG, 1DG) in the 11-9 victory.

Phil Hawthorne reflected later that Casey was “super at fullback that day. His dropped goal just seemed to go and on through the rarified atmosphere.” Casey played against New Zealand in 1964 before Lenehan reclaimed the custodial role for much of the next two seasons. He was originally selected for the Fifth Wallabies tour to Britain but withdrew after he damaged his right knee late in one of the final pre-tour trials, an injury that led to his retirement. Terry Casey played six Tests for Australia in a two-year international career.

Highlights

1963

Casey won his first Test cap at fullback in the 2nd Test, 9-5 victory over South Africa at Cape Town. He retained his position for both the third and fourth Tests of that series.

1964

Casey started at fullback in all three Bledisloe Cup Tests against South Africa.