Just to the right of the grandstand at no1 Oval as you look at the ground is a once handsome drinking fountain now shamefully fallen in to disrepair.
It was put up and unveiled in June 1902 by the Chancellor of the University, HN MacLaurin.
It commemorates one of the University’s most dominant sportsman of the 19th century.
The colleagues and friends of Dr Leopold Edward Flood Neill BA, MB, ChM (1866-1901) wished his memory to be preserved.
The current state of the fountain would seem to suggest that Dr Neill’s memory will now unfortunately quickly fade.
Neill, educated at Sydney Grammar, played Rugby for University during some of its glittering seasons, 1884-1890, including the three seasons,1887,1888,1889, when the 1st XV was undefeated. He also represented NSW.
He was also a Sydney University cricketer although the records of the time are scattered.
He played at least during 1886-87 when he was also a member of the General Committee and the selection committee.
In 1886-87, he played mainly 2nd Grade but he also played at least two 1st Grade games (9 not out v Parramatta, 3-48 v Belvedere). In 2nds he was dominant in low-scoring games with 126 runs @21. His 43 against Carlton was easily the highest score in University’s 82. He played in 2nds’ extraordinary game against Manly at Manly in March 1887 when Neill’s 39 was once again highest score in University’s 144. Manly then collapsed for the lowest score ever made against University in any grade in any season. All out 11. Boyce 6 for 5. Neill 3 for 6.
So, when you’re at the oval, just pause at Neill’s drinking fountain and remember one of our great doctors and sportsmen.
And petition the University authorities to preserve this 121 year old monument!
James Rodgers