‘The Argus’ newspaper described Vin as a ‘nuggety rover’ and in another match report referred to his ‘hard work’ around the packs.
[5] While Vin made his mark in VFL and VFA football, he was also regarded as an outstanding professional runner and, in later years, a running coach.
Sabbatucci first ‘made the news’ in pro-running in December 1956 when he won the Talbot Gift (off 8 yards) in 12.3 seconds.
Over the next twenty years, Vin became a celebrity in the sport of professional foot racing, training and running himself, claiming race victories and running in multiple finals, most notable being a finalist in the Bendigo gift 4 times, but unfortunately not claiming a win in any of the 4 final appearances.
Vin also trained Prahran Gift winners Rod Butters (1982) and Bill Liston (1984).