The Mounties Manly Warringah Waratahs are proud to confirm that Phil “Skid” Marks has been nominated as the club’s 54th Life Member, with his formal induction to take place at the Presentation Night on Saturday 11 April.
It is one of the highest honours our club can bestow — and few individuals have shaped the Waratahs quite like Skid.
Skid’s journey with Manly began in 1979, when he arrived at Grahams Reserve as a 19-year-old alongside his father. Those present still recall the imposing young all-rounder with distinctive white hair, enormous hands and an undeniable aura — someone who immediately looked like he belonged.
From 1979 to 1993, Skid built an outstanding playing career in Waratahs colours. A genuine all-rounder, he amassed:
- 5,506 runs at 34.30
- 190 wickets at 22.84
- 122 catches
His performances at club level earned him higher honours with NSW, where he played 13 Sheffield Shield matches and 7 List A games, underlining the quality he brought to the Manly program.
He was instrumental in Manly’s 1988-89 First Grade Premiership, producing a superb season with 647 runs at 49.77 and 20 wickets at 19.65 — delivering when it mattered most in a championship year.
While his playing record alone would secure his place in club history, it was Skid’s impact as a coach that elevated him into truly elite company.
Joining his brother-in-law Shawn Bradstreet as Men’s Club Coach in 2014, Skid helped usher in one of the most successful periods in the club’s modern era. Over seven remarkable seasons, he guided and influenced teams across the entire Men’s program.
Under his leadership, the club secured:
- Club Championships – 2014-15 and 2017-18
- First & Third Grade Premierships – 2014-15
- Fourth & Fifth Grade Premierships – 2017-18
- Second Grade Premiership – 2020-21
Across his tenure, Skid was involved in premiership success spanning every Men’s grade (1 through 5) — an extraordinary achievement that reflects not only deep cricketing knowledge, but a whole-of-club vision and commitment to excellence.
Those around the club consistently speak of his popularity, his connection with players and the enormous role he played in driving standards and sustained success, particularly over the past decade. His contribution has left a lasting imprint on the culture and identity of the Waratahs — one he should feel immensely proud of.
His final season as Club Coach fittingly concluded with a Second Grade Premiership in 2020-21, closing the chapter on a coaching career defined by unity, standards and sustained achievement.
Following his retirement and move to Queensland, Skid’s absence has been deeply felt. As a player, coach and mentor, he has influenced generations of Waratahs cricketers.
Life Membership recognises not only the premierships, championships and statistics — impressive as they are — but the pride, loyalty and love Skid has always shown for the Tahs.
The entire club congratulates Skid on this richly deserved nomination and looks forward to formally welcoming him as the 54th Life Member at Presentation Night on April 11 — a fitting celebration of an extraordinary contribution to Mounties Manly Warringah Waratahs.
