Alan (Indy) Hickling: A Life of Quiet Devotion is the moving portrait of a man whose legacy isn't written in goals kicked or games won, but in guernseys folded, kit bags packed, and a lifetime of steadfast presence behind the scenes of a beloved football club.
From his birth just a stone's throw from the Swan Districts Football Club to his quiet assumption of the club's property steward role in 1989, Alan "Indy" Hickling has lived a life rooted in purpose, loyalty, and selfless service. The son of revered Swans trainer Jack Hickling, Indy never sought the spotlight?but his devotion became its own kind of heroism. Nicknamed "Indy" by premiership captain Peter Hodyl, Alan became a fixture at the club, known not just for his reliability but for his quiet dignity and fierce commitment.
He never played the game, but few have embodied its spirit more fully. Through the passing of his parents, health challenges, and the changing tides of club footy, Indy remained a constant?a man of routine, heart, and humble resilience. His recognition as Club Person of the Year and Life Member was not a culmination but a footnote to decades of invisible, invaluable work.
This semi-biographical memoir honours not just Indy's life, but the unsung army of volunteers who breathe life into local sport. It's a tribute to the power of showing up?not for glory, but for love.
In a world hungry for headlines, Indy Hickling's A Life of Quiet Devotion reminds us that greatness can be quiet, steady, and deeply felt. Alan Hickling's story is one of integrity, consistency, and the kind of quiet strength that holds clubs?and communities?together.
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About the Author
It might be said that the expression "Jack of all trades and master of none" is an apt description of Peter J Snow OAM.
He abandoned pursuit of an engineering degree and accounting qualifications ? but his efforts will leave an extraordinary legacy.
He attributes this to the training, skills and self-confidence he gained through membership of JCI (formerly known as Jaycees International) after joining Fremantle Jaycees in 1970.
Obstacles encountered dented (but certainly not overwhelmed) his positive approach and desire to help and mentor others. His vision, entrepreneurial skills and contribution to his community over 70+ years (some of which are referred to in this book) have resulted in a myriad of awards.
International awards for programs developed or overseen by him include: national public relations; awards; fundraising; group collaboration; commercial education; and assistance to the handicapped.
Personal awards include: Voluntary Contribution to Western Australian Heritage; Honorary Tarheel of North Carolina; a Paul Harris fellowship from Rotary; and Community Torchbearer for the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
In addition to being recognised as Outstanding Senator of JCI, Outstanding National Officer and one of the World's Inspiring Jaycees, he was Australian Jaycees (JCIA) first Ambassador in Western Australia and one of the state's Five Outstanding Young Australians.
Along with a JCI Senatorship, he holds life memberships of 8 community or sporting organisations and was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his contribution to the Australian community. In 2025 he was awarded Life Membership of JCIA.