In 1920, when players first wore individual numbers and the innovation was well received as an easier way to tell the identity of a player, a young George Nottle was first described as the ideal back pocket player.

Making his A Grade debut in 1920, George would play for South for 14 years, and would be a member of 11 premiership teams. In 1921 he first represented the GFA against the Barossa and Light, and the United Churches Association.

During the 1920s, along with his brothers, George would become part of the backbone of one the greatest winning streaks in local footy history, representing the GFA on many occasions.

The Nottle boys, Charlie, Dick, George, Tom, Len and Bevan taught themselves to play football with each other using a stocking stuffed with straw. Indeed in one match against Salisbury, five of the brothers played in the team and South's tally of fourteen goals were all kicked by Nottles.

Dick Nottle was yet another brother who played great football for South along with his brother Clarrie who had captained the A Grade in 1930, 1931 and 1932. Len Nottle, the youngest of the Nottles, left South in 1931 to play in the Upper Murray League. A great player, Len was there until 1936 and returned to play for South in 1940 until 1942.

Of course George Nottle's sons John and Brenton would also later become champions for South.