Armstrong

Robert Daniel Armstrong, known as "Bob," was a speedy and uncompromising winger who was a founding member of the Carlton Football Club in the VFL. A player of dedication and versatility, he was a rare constant on the wing throughout his senior career.

Early Life & VFA Career
Born on July 25, 1872, Bob Armstrong's football journey began at North Melbourne Juniors before he was recruited to Carlton in 1895. He made an immediate impact in the Victorian Football Association (VFA), where he played for two seasons.

1895: In his first season, Armstrong played in a remarkable 11 matches, and was named in the squad for an additional seven. The VFA tribunal suspended Armstrong for the first two games of the 1896 season due to an incident in a game on August 24.

1896: Despite the suspension, Armstrong played in at least 7 games, scoring 1 goal in a loss to Melbourne. He played a key role in a win over Richmond and a drawn match against Geelong at the MCG.

VFL Career & Legacy
When the VFL was formed, Bob Armstrong was one of just fifteen players who remained from Carlton’s VFA days. On May 8, 1897, at Brunswick Street Oval, he was one of the twenty players who wore the uniform of the Carlton Football Club in the inaugural round of the new competition.

VFL Tenure: Armstrong played as a wingman in each of his twelve VFL appearances for Carlton. His only victory came in a spiteful game against St Kilda at Princes Park in July 1897.

Departure: He returned for a second season in 1898 but played just twice more before quitting top-level football after a loss to Essendon in Round 3.

Long Service Testimonial: In recognition of his service, Bob Armstrong was presented with a "long service testimonial" at the Carlton AGM on April 6, 1899.

Permit to Richmond: On May 2, 1900, a permit was granted for Armstrong to play with Richmond.

Later Life
After his career, Bob Armstrong was "late of the Abbotsford Brewery." He passed away at the age of 78 on June 3, 1951, in Prahran, Victoria, while a resident of 20 Oxford Street, South Yarra. His funeral was held at the Springvale Crematorium on June 4, 1951.