Jim Thiel was an Australian rules footballer who played in the South Australian National Football League ('SANFL') for the Norwood Football Club from 1975 to 1984.^[1] Thiel is remembered as one of the club's greats, making significant contributions to the team, including two premierships. He died at the age of 30 in a building site accident in 1986.

Jim Thiel was born on 24 March 1956 in Loxton, South Australia. Raised in regional South Australia, he moved to Adelaide in the early 1970s to pursue his football career. He lived at Carmel Court, a shared accommodation provided by Norwood for country recruits, and attended Norwood High School.

Norwood Football Club Thiel made his debut for Norwood in 1975, quickly becoming known for his talent as a centre half forward. His career began on a high note, playing a key role in the team’s success in the SANFL.

In his first season, Thiel replaced the injured Ian Stasinowsky during the finals and helped Norwood win the 1975 premiership. His performances that year earned him the club's Best First-Year Player award. Over the next several years, Thiel established himself as a crucial part of Norwood's lineup.

Thiel's playing style was marked by his leadership, physical presence on the field, and consistent performances. He played a pivotal role in Norwood’s second premiership in 1982, and over his career, Thiel played 156 games and kicked 71 goals for the club.

Thiel’s career was overshadowed by a series of knee injuries, beginning with a severe injury in 1977 that required knee reconstruction. Despite his ongoing battles with injury, Thiel remained one of the SANFL's best centre half forwards until his early retirement in 1984 at the age of 28. His career was cut short by the toll his injuries took on his body.

Jim Thiel is remembered as one of Norwood's greatest players, and his contributions to the club are still honored by fans and players alike. Thiel was posthumously awarded Life Membership by the Norwood Football Club in recognition of his outstanding service to the team.

He was known for his leadership both on and off the field, and he left an indelible mark on the club’s history.

Thiel died on 8 September 1986 at the age of 30. He died in a building site accident when a tunnel collapsed during plumbing work in Adelaide. His death was a great loss to the football community, and he was mourned by both Norwood supporters and the wider South Australian football fraternity.

Thiel was remembered for his humility, work ethic, and love for the game of Australian rules football. He was highly regarded by his teammates and coaches for his dedication to the sport and his leadership qualities.

• Premierships: 1975, 1982 (Norwood Football Club)

• Life membership: Norwood Football Club (Posthumously)