J. Rupert Balfe

(Joseph) Rupert Balfe (9 March 1890 – 25 April 1915) was an Australian rules footballer. Born in Brunswick, Balfe attended Princes Hill State School before earning a scholarship to attend University High School. Rupert decided after High School that he would study medicine. He attended Melbourne University for his degree and accomplished it. During his years at the University he played for the VFL Football Club. He played Australian rules footbal... more

(Joseph) Rupert Balfe (9 March 1890 – 25 April 1915) was an Australian rules footballer. Born in Brunswick, Balfe attended Princes Hill State School before earning a scholarship to attend University High School. Rupert decided after High School that he would study medicine. He attended Melbourne University for his degree and accomplished it. During his years at the University he played for the VFL Football Club. He played Australian rules football for VFA Club Brunswick whilst enjoying athletics at University High. He played in a Grand Final with Brunswick against Footscray, along with his two brothers, Harold and Stan. Balfe, a wingman, broke his arm during the match and that turned the game, with Footscray winning by 24 points. When at Melbourne University, he became a classy footballer with the VFL/AFL side University, but due to studies he was limited. He played on 1 game in season 1909-1910, making his debut in 1909, but in 1911 he came back, and allowed for 6 more games, before... less