Received life membership in 2012.
Dale began his association with Ainslie in the early 80s as a member of the senior squad where he quickly fitted in and left a lasting impression, becoming a key player in the 1982 Second Grade Premiership side. Dale would also go on to win the Richard Fleming Memorial Award that year for the most determined player in the Ainslie senior squad and go on to represent Ainslie 170 times.
A consistent player in amongst Ainslie Second Grade dominance in the 80s – Dale was further entrenched in Ainslie’s premiership sides in 1983, 1984, 1987. After toiling away in Second Grade, standout performances in the reserves saw Dale make his First Grade debut for Ainslie in 1982 under Coach Cowboy Neale.
Dale’s involvement with Ainslie would continue into the 90s after his playing days where he would serve as President from 1991-1993. Ainslie success in the early 90s stemmed from the back of Dale’s leadership during his presidency tenure, where Ainslie sides would win five premierships (including two First Grade premierships) in just three years under Dale’s helm.
Recognition of Life Membership for Dale is attributed to consistent success for Ainslie on the field, but also demonstration of his leadership that laid the foundation to Ainslie’s on-going club success in the 90s.