Austin 'Cheesey' Hughes

Achievements:

• Football: Multiple hat tricks and notable performances for Pembroke Juniors

• Billiards: Bermuda Champion (1960, 1961, 1963), Bermuda break record holder

• Cricket: Somerset Cup Match team (1951-1960), took 22 wickets for 196 runs

Biography:

Austin 'Cheesey' Hughes was a remarkable multi-sport athlete, dominating football, billiards, and cricket during the 1950s and 1960s. Known for his versatility and exceptional skill, Hughes left an indelible mark on Bermuda's sports history.

In football, Hughes played as a center forward for the powerhouse Pembroke Juniors. His prowess on the field was evident as he frequently scored hat tricks, often by halftime. One of his most memorable performances came in 1951 when he scored all five goals in a match against HMS Burghhead Bay. In 1956, Hughes sealed a victory for the Juniors in double overtime during their fourth Knockout Cup win. The following year, he played a crucial role in defeating the BAA Greens, setting up the first goal and scoring the second.

Hughes's gifted shot was on full display when he scored seven goals in a single match against Southampton Rangers in 1957, leading the Juniors to an 11-0 victory. His versatility was further highlighted when he spent two years as a goalkeeper. In 1963, Hughes scored hat tricks on back-to-back Sundays, with the second coming in a 7-0 win over Key West Rangers.

Hughes's talent extended to billiards, where he won three Bermuda Championships. He defeated Edward 'Mojo' Robinson in 1960 and 1961 and again in 1963. Between 1960 and 1964, Hughes achieved 35 breaks of 100, showcasing his skill with the pool stick. One of his favorite matches was against Lloyd Simmons, where he made impressive runs of 23, 39, 42, and then an astonishing 188, causing Simmons to quit the match.

In 1964, Hughes set the Bermuda break record with a 190 at Albert's Bar. His prowess in billiards earned him respect and recognition, with Earl Darrell famously remarking, "I beat God," after defeating Hughes.

Hughes was also a cricket star, playing for the Somerset Cup Match team from 1951 to 1960. He was the first non-Somerset player selected for the squad and proved his worth by taking 22 wickets for 196 runs, averaging 18. One of his cricket highlights was scoring a team-high 29 runs against EW Swanton's XI in 1956. In 1959, Hughes hit 100 not out against Southampton Rangers, leading Somerset to declare. He also formed a formidable partnership with Mackie Simmons, scoring 246 runs in a Cup Match trial.

Legacy:

Austin 'Cheesey' Hughes's extraordinary talent and versatility made him a standout athlete in multiple sports. His achievements in football, billiards, and cricket are a testament to his skill and dedication. Hughes's ability to excel in diverse disciplines and his memorable performances have left a lasting legacy in Bermuda's sporting history. His story continues to inspire future generations of athletes, proving that with talent and determination, one can conquer multiple arenas.