Frank Hyde, Australian rugby player, coach, and sportscaster (d. 2007)

Frank Hyde MBE OAM (7 February 1916 – 24 September 2007) was an Australian rugby league luminary whose influence spanned across playing fields, coaching sidelines, and, most famously, the airwaves. A versatile New South Wales representative three-quarter, Hyde forged a notable playing career with several prominent NSWRFL Premiership clubs in Sydney, including Newtown, Balmain, and North Sydney. While his on-field achievements were significant, highlighted by a Premiership victory with Balmain in 1939, his post-playing career as a pioneering and beloved radio commentator earned him unparalleled national recognition, cementing his status as one of Australian sport's most iconic voices. His profound contributions were acknowledged with prestigious honours, including Membership of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), and induction into both the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and the Australian Commercial Radio Industry Hall of Fame.

Hyde's lasting legacy in Rugby League is commemorated annually through the Frank Hyde Shield, a three-match tournament contested between two of his former clubs, the Newtown Jets and the North Sydney Bears.

A Distinguished Career in Rugby League

Born in Glebe, Sydney, Frank Hyde embarked on his professional rugby league journey in 1933, debuting for the Newtown Bluebags (now Newtown Jets). A dynamic three-quarter, capable of playing both centre and five-eighth, he quickly established himself as a formidable presence on the field. His talent caught the eye of selectors, leading to his debut for the New South Wales representative team, for whom he played nine matches between 1937 and 1939, often facing formidable British touring sides.

In 1937, Hyde made a pivotal move to the Balmain Tigers, where he achieved one of his most significant playing triumphs. He was a key member of the Balmain team that clinched the 1939 NSWRFL Premiership, defeating South Sydney in a memorable Grand Final. This victory underscored his prowess as a player and his tactical understanding of the game. After his successful stint with Balmain, Hyde continued his club career with the North Sydney Bears from 1941 until his retirement from playing in 1944. Beyond his playing days, Hyde also lent his expertise as a coach, guiding clubs such as Canterbury-Bankstown, North Sydney, and Penrith in the post-war era.

The Iconic Voice of Australian Sport

Frank Hyde's transition from the field to the commentary box in 1953 marked the beginning of an extraordinary new chapter, one that would make him a household name across Australia. Working for major Sydney radio stations like 2SM, 2UE, and later 2KY, Hyde revolutionised rugby league broadcasting. His distinctive voice, rhythmic delivery, and unparalleled ability to vividly paint a picture of the game for his listeners set him apart. He became synonymous with his famous, electrifying catchphrase, "It's High, It's Here, It's a Try!", a call that perfectly encapsulated the excitement and drama of a scoring moment and remains one of the most enduring phrases in Australian sports commentary.

For over three decades, Hyde's voice was the soundtrack to countless rugby league matches, guiding generations of fans through the thrills and spills of the game. He possessed a unique talent for conveying emotion and intensity, making listeners feel as though they were right there in the stadium. His commentary transcended mere play-by-play; it was a captivating narrative that enriched the understanding and enjoyment of the sport for millions, cementing his legacy as a true pioneer in sports media.

Enduring Recognition and Legacy

Frank Hyde's profound and multifaceted contributions to Australian sport were recognised with a series of prestigious national honours and inductions into esteemed halls of fame. These accolades underscore the breadth of his influence, extending far beyond his playing and coaching careers to his indelible mark on sports broadcasting and his wider service to the community.

• Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE): Awarded in 1974 for his dedicated services to sport, particularly rugby league.
• Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM): Conferred in 2005, acknowledging his significant service to rugby league football as a player, coach, and media commentator.
• Sport Australia Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1985, placing him among the nation's most revered sporting figures.
• Australian Commercial Radio Industry Hall of Fame: Recognised in 2004 for his groundbreaking and influential career in radio broadcasting.

The Frank Hyde Shield, inaugurated in 2004, stands as a tangible tribute to his enduring impact. This annual three-match tournament pits the Newtown Jets against the North Sydney Bears, two clubs where Hyde left his mark as a player. The Shield serves not only as a competitive fixture but also as a reminder of Hyde's journey through the sport and his commitment to its development. It honours a man who was not just a player or a commentator, but a foundational figure in Australian rugby league history, whose voice and passion continue to resonate through the game he loved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Frank Hyde

When was Frank Hyde born and when did he pass away?

Frank Hyde was born on 7 February 1916 and passed away on 24 September 2007.

What were Frank Hyde's primary roles in rugby league?

He was a prominent rugby league footballer, coach, and most famously, a highly influential radio commentator.

Which clubs did Frank Hyde play for?

In the NSWRFL Premiership, he played for Newtown, Balmain, and North Sydney.

Did Frank Hyde win any Premierships as a player?

Yes, he won the 1939 NSWRFL Premiership with the Balmain Tigers.

What made Frank Hyde famous as a commentator?

Hyde was renowned for his distinctive voice, rhythmic delivery, and iconic catchphrases, particularly "It's High, It's Here, It's a Try!", which became synonymous with rugby league broadcasting.

What national honours did Frank Hyde receive?

He was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1974 and awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2005.

Which Halls of Fame is Frank Hyde inducted into?

He is a member of both the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and the Australian Commercial Radio Industry Hall of Fame.

What is the Frank Hyde Shield?

The Frank Hyde Shield is an annual three-match rugby league tournament played between the Newtown Jets and the North Sydney Bears, commemorating Hyde's contributions to the sport and these two clubs.