Manly Cricket was a big part of John’s early life in the 80’s and 90’s. He scored in 1st grade however it was as a 2nd grade scorer that he will be best remembered.
In the 1996/97 Annual Report, 2nd grade captain wrote: “To John Baxter, well, he is like a12th man part of the team and it helps that he can score or attempt to score. JB you are a legend, thank you for your support.”
in the 1998/99 Annual Report, skipper Paul Brenner wrote: “A huge thanks needs to go to our scorer John Baxter. John has been with the Club for many years now and we are indebted to him for the Saturdays he sacrifices for us.”
In his funeral on Thursday 21st January the Rector, reflecting on John’s life, pointed out that the Club was a big part of his early life and there was a table of his Club memorabilia on display at the wake. Included was a great bat with the 1980/81 NSW ‘Shield team signatures on the top half and the 1980/81 Manly 1sts on the bottom. A Manly cap and other items.
John was always so proud of all things Manly Cricket Club.
John married Angela six years ago. Angela also has a spina bifida condition and is wheelchair bound. John and Angela completed their schooling at Manly Warringah Special School at Allambie Heights (now closed). John was in Year 12 when Angela commenced Kindergarten. John gained a Business Diploma and worked for the State Government, gaining a medal for meritorious service. Angela is a Uni Graduate. John did wheelchair fencing and other interesting sports.
John’s Mother Carol said at the funeral that one of John’s life highlights was the Club’s Tour of England in 1991 when the team took him right to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Aparrently there is a good story there that can’t be told in a public forum.
John ignored the difficulties of being captive to his wheelchair and was always there when needed; a truly great MWDCC Clubman remembered by all at the Club in that era!
RIP good John Baxter, a true Manly legend.
