Spike Pola, Australian footballer and soldier (b. 1914)

Jack Stephen "Spike" Pola (born Giovanni Stefano Pola; 16 November 1914 – 6 January 2012) was an indelible figure in Australian rules football, particularly celebrated for his distinguished career with the West Perth Football Club in the Western Australian National Football League (WANFL). His journey, from a young boy born in Fremantle to a decorated premiership captain, encapsulates a significant era in Western Australian football history.

Born Giovanni Stefano Pola in Fremantle in 1914, a pivotal decision regarding his identity was made early in his life. In 1928, on the prudent advice of his mother, he anglicised his birth name to Jack Stephen. This pragmatic choice was made to pre-empt potential on-field ridicule or cultural insensitivity he might face during a state schoolboys' football carnival, reflecting the social challenges and assimilation pressures experienced by many immigrant families in Australia during that period.

Pola's footballing journey commenced with Mount Hawthorn in the Metropolitan Junior Football Association, where his inherent talent quickly became apparent. This rapid development led to his progression to a West Perth team competing in the Western Australian National Football Association (WANFA). The WANFA served as a crucial reserves or feeder competition, providing a vital pathway for emerging players to hone their skills before transitioning to the senior WANFL ranks. His burgeoning capabilities were further acknowledged in July 1935 when he was selected to represent a WANFA representative side that embarked on a significant and highly anticipated tour of the Goldfields region, showcasing his potential on a broader Western Australian stage.

Later in 1935, Jack Pola made his anticipated senior debut for the West Perth Football Club in the WANFL. His natural leadership qualities quickly shone, culminating in his appointment as vice-captain in 1940 and then ascending to the esteemed captaincy in 1941. The 1941 season stands as a monumental highlight in Pola's career: he not only skillfully led the West Perth Football Club to a celebrated premiership victory, a testament to the team's resilience and his exemplary leadership during a challenging period, but also garnered individual accolades. He shared the prestigious 1941 Breckler Medal, an award presented annually to the club's best and fairest player, with his respected teammate Ted O'Keefe. This shared honour underscored his consistent elite performance and all-round contribution to the team's success, with the Breckler Medal being one of the most esteemed club awards in WANFL history, recognising both skill and sportsmanship.

Like many Australian athletes of his generation, Pola's flourishing football career was interrupted by the profound exigencies of national service during World War II. He proudly enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in January 1943, serving as a leading aircraftman, and contributed to the war effort until his honourable discharge in February 1945. Upon his return from military duty, Pola immediately rejoined the West Perth Football Club in 1945. He was once again entrusted with the captaincy, a clear testament to his enduring leadership prowess and indispensable value to the team, although he served in this specific role for only one more season.

Jack Pola ultimately retired from senior football two years later, concluding a distinguished and impactful career. He played a remarkable 152 games and kicked an impressive 203 goals for the West Perth Football Club. His notable goal-kicking ability, particularly for a player who often served as a versatile utility or forward during his era, underscores his significant offensive contribution and adaptability on the field. Jack Stephen Pola passed away in January 2012 at his home in Mount Lawley and was laid to rest at Karrakatta Cemetery, a prominent burial ground in Perth. He holds a unique and poignant place in West Perth's storied history as the last surviving member of their legendary 1941 premiership team, serving as a direct link to one of the club's most cherished triumphs and a golden era of Western Australian football. His enduring legacy continues to be an integral part of the rich tapestry of the Western Australian National Football League.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jack "Spike" Pola

What was Jack "Spike" Pola's birth name?

Jack Stephen Pola was born Giovanni Stefano Pola.

Why did Jack Pola anglicise his name?

He anglicised his name in 1928, on the advice of his mother, to pre-empt potential on-field ridicule or cultural insensitivity during a state schoolboys' football carnival, reflecting broader social dynamics of the time.

Which football club did Jack Pola play for?

Jack "Spike" Pola notably played his entire senior career for the West Perth Football Club in the Western Australian National Football League (WANFL).

What were some of Jack Pola's major career achievements?

Pola captained West Perth to a premiership victory in 1941 and also shared the prestigious Breckler Medal (the club's best and fairest award) in the same year. He played 152 senior games and kicked 203 goals.

Did Jack Pola serve in the military?

Yes, Jack Pola served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) as a leading aircraftman from January 1943 to February 1945 during World War II, interrupting his football career.