Leo Epifania’s parents arrived in Australia as part of the post-world war two migration program. It is a heritage that he wears with great pride. For the youngster who grew up in the middle of Wests territory he would have had little idea that in years to come he would contribute so much to the country of his parents birth through rugby league.
His family settled in the suburb of Croydon Park. Leo attended Croydon Park primary school which had a record of producing fine rugby league players. He also played rugby league at school and represented the zone at the state titles.
However it was Australian football that captured his interest on weekends. He lived close to Picken Oval where Wests AFL was head-quartered. Therefore he played the Australian game for eleven seasons. By the early 1980’s Leo joined his brother, Ross at Enfield Federals and was soon graded with Wests.
Leo played with the club during the early to mid-1980’s when the very existence of Wests was at stake. He was one of the many that battled on to keep the Magpies flying high. After retiring he remained committed to the club taking on coaching, administration and eventually Board roles which is acknowledged as a life time commitment.
Leo has racked up many achievements but perhaps there are two which have great personal meaning and that is his Clubman of the Year award in 2014 and the award of Life Membership of the Mighty Magpies.
Mick Liubinskas (L) and Leo Epifania (R) receiving the “Clubman of the Year” Award 2014
