Bulldogs By the Numbers

[Bulldog4life]

I use to love doing a good drop kick

Yeah as a kid and teenager they were the best kicks to do. Seconded by the beloved torp.

[Bulldog4life]

He ended up at Collingwood too.

Yes, I'm not sure how that came about.

Only played 4 games with the filth. It was at time or a bit before when KT squeezed Laurie out of the forward line.

[merantau]

Beginning in Round 1, 1989 John Georgiardes was with us for 3 years but only played 15 games. His first was the stuff of dreams - a cool 8 goals 4 behinds against the Blues at Princes park.

But after that goals were hard to come by and he registered just 12 more in his remaining 14 games. Only 2 players have kicked more goals on debut in the game's history.

[merantau]

Paul Hudson arrived in 1997 and wore #9 for 5 seasons. He was an excellent player for us. Reliable and consistent - a real pro. 108 games produced 214 goals. Overall he played 245 games and kicked 479 goals spending his last season at Richmond. Is now coaching Sandringham.

[merantau]

Has there ever been a more precise kick of the ball than our next #9 of note, Lindsay Gilbee? He debuted in 2001 and wore #29 swapping to #9 in '02. He played 206 games and kicked 119 goals

[merantau]

Has there ever been a more precise kick of the ball than our next #9 of note, Lindsay Gilbee? He debuted in 2001 and wore #29 swapping to #9 in '02. He played 206 games and kicked 119 goals. He was a defender who liked to take the game on and didn't need to be inside 50m to snag a sausage roll. He was taken at number 43 in the draft. We hit the jackpot with that selection!

https://youtu.be/kPu7YBrJZwI

[merantau]

Jake Stringer wore #9 for 89 games and booted 160 goals. His 2015 season was something to behold; it seemed there was no limit to his outrageousness as he kicked freak goals, split packs and barn stormed his way past hapless defenders leaving them snatching at air or sprawled in his wake.

His performance dropped off in 2016 but he still managed to kick 42 goals and some, in our finals campaign, were critical. And it is worth remembering that in both the Prelim and GF it was Jake who had the ball in his hands at the death. And the decisions he made in those critical moments were the right ones.
It was hugely disappointing to legions of our supporters when we moved Jake on but it was the right decision. He should have been a Bulldog great - instead he is a great regret. I really rated him when he was at his best. He could do things beyond the capabilities of most players. Such a shame.

https://youtu.be/tPQZggM5K8g

[merantau]

0ur current #9 Haydn Crozier has been with us for 3 years and 54 games and what a good player he has been. He had his doubters, me included, in his first year with us but those have been well and truly put to bed. He is an excellent rebounder who reads the play, marks strongly, spoils and tackles with intent and gives us some run. Hope he plays out his time with us.
https://youtu.be/D1HQtbzkBoI

[merantau]

Gordon Casey came to us in 1969 having spent the previous 2 years as a forward at Carlton where he played one game. He was the leading goal kicker in their Reserves in those two years.

Initially he wore #34 but changed to #10. We turned him into a defender. He played 125 games for us as a tough back pocket who combined very well with full back David Darcy. He was good enough to be selected for Victoria. He finished with us in 1975, went West and played in the WAFL grand final in 1980.

[Twodogs]

Gordon Casey came to us in 1969 having spent the previous 2 years as a forward at Carlton where he played one game. He was the leading goal kicker in their Reserves in those two years.

Initially he wore #34 but changed to #10. We turned him into a defender. He played 125 games for us as a tough back pocket who combined very well with full back David Darcy. He was good enough to be selected for Victoria. He finished with us in 1975, went West and played in the WAFL grand final in 1980.

Gordon Casey was Chairman of Selectors and an assistant/specialist coach with us for many years too.

[merantau]

Gordon Casey was Chairman of Selectors and an assistant/specialist coach with us for many years too.

Thanks for that input TD. My knowledge of the coaching and other personnel over the years is at best basic.

[merantau]

Season 1978 saw Mick Egan, from Kingsville YMCA, debut wearing #49 for one game. In 1979 he appeared wearing #10 and quickly established himself as a permanent fixture in the team for a 10 year, 128 game career as a courageous and dependable back pocket.

[merantau]

1988 saw Mark Hunter appear wearing #44. Next season he took over #10 and wore it for the remainder of his 130 game, 9 seasons career. He came to us from Geelong Reserves - their loss!

Mark was a terrific defender for us. Totally reliable and dedicated to the cause. Proud fater of Lachie.

[Twodogs]

Season 1978 saw Mick Egan, from Kingsville YMCA, debut wearing #49 for one game. In 1979 he appeared wearing #10 and quickly established himself as a permanent fixture in the team for a 10 year, 128 game career as a courageous and dependable back pocket.

I had his number on my duffle coat in the early '80s. It's a shame he missed so many games in 1985. He would have been the perfect foil for Brad Hardie and the ideal match up for Leigh Matthews in the preliminary final.

[jeemak]

Keep up the good work merantau - this thread is great!

[merantau]

Our next #10 of noted was talented sportsman Brett Montgomery. He captained Victorian Junior cricket 11s and played football for Essendon U/19s and Reserves but was delisted in 1991.

He went to England and played League cricket for 2 seasons and then decided to have another try at football back home.

He played VFA with Springvale winning a Premiership. We picked him up and added him to our Supplementary List where he won the Reserves B&F and was elevated to the Senior List. He debuted in Rd 2, 1997 aged 23.
Monty quickly seized his opportunity and became a fine player wherever he played - forward or back. In 60 games between '97 and '99 he bagged 54 goals. He was an aerialist of note his trademark trick being extended hang time. I saw him take a couple of rippers at the "G".

Why we traded him to Port on 2000 is a mystery. He won their B&F in his first season, had 6 years with them, played in their Premiership and racked up 126 games which yeilded 51 goals.

He was delisted at the end of '05 as part of a 'youth policy'. He returned to us wearing #43 and gave excellent service. Flattened at the bounce of the 2006 Eliminated Final by Collingwood's Brodie Holland, he somehow managed to get to his feet to play the game of his life and kick four goals - an inspiring performance that spearheaded a great win.
Tragedy struck in Rd 1, 2007 when a knee to the back resulted in a career ending injury.
Since retirement Monty was an Assistant Coach at Carlton for three years before joining our coaching panel for many years. In 2018 he returned to Port as Assistant coach

Monty was a very fine player - 204 games and 119 goals spread over 11 years bears testament to that.

My thanks to Wikipedia and AFL Tables for information used in and all previous posts.

https://youtu.be/WArsWCSDwqw

The '06 Elim and Monty's heroics. Holland got 6 weeks for the hit.

https://youtu.be/M-z7Dqv8XrY

[Ozza]

Brett Montgomery came to the club for the 1997 season, and was part of a real resurgence for the club at that time waring the #10.

60 games as a forward and sometimes wingman in his first stint at the dogs, and then he was traded to Port where he played 126 games including a premiership, primarily as a defender. Came back to the dogs wearing #43 in a further 17 games for the club.

Terrific player at both ends of the ground, who was a high flyer and brave. Only had one season in his career (2000 at Port) where he played in more losses than wins, and seemed to find success wherever he was at the time. Over 10% of his career games are finals.

Has ended up a well respected assistant coach.

(edit: apologies for doubling up with Merantau....posted this unaware of previous post)

[merantau]

Nathan Eagleton arrived from Port Power in 2000 in a trade for Brett Montgomery and a 2nd round draft pick. He came with an asterix beside his name as in season '99 he had been diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, an arrhythmia of the heart, after collapsing on the field.
Thankfully for Nathan he suffered no repercussions and went on to have a long and productive 11 year career in the #10 guernsey playing 221 games for us and booting 186 goals for a 14 year career of 277 games and 231 goals.

We recruited him for his long left foot and his hard running link up ability. In both he did not disappoint.

A very fine player indeed who, in 2012, experienced Premiership joy in his last year of football when he played in a Premiership at the Happy Valley Football Club with his three younger brothers.

https://youtu.be/1OdXn4b9oRU

[merantau]

Premiership skipper Easton Wood debuted in 2009 wearing #29. Three years later he took over #10 and has now played 173 games. Courage, desperation and athleticism are hallmarks of his play. He won the B&F as a fitting tribute to his brilliant play in 2015

His leadership in 2016 was a vital ingredient of our success. His performance in the finals series was inspirational. After a shaky start in front of the goals against Hawthorn it was Easton who stepped up to cooly slot our first major.
Against GWS he lead from the front as usual, played a brilliant first quarter and was pivotal in turning back many of the Plastics forward entries. "Cometh the Hour. Cometh the Man."

This compilation is a brilliant tribute to a Bulldog champ

https://youtu.be/PWZBJiZ3QvI

There is no limit to the number of times you can view this. Enjoy.

https://youtu.be/OR1OpuW7at4

[jeemak]

Bernie is in the Hall of Fame for his Brownlow, 2 X Colemans and 6 X leading club goalkicking awards...

Unlike Kelvin Templeton mumble, gripe who has exactly the same record even though he played half as many games and for almost a decade less! just sayin'.

It seems inconceivable that his ongoing omission isn't political. He must have upset somebody in his administration days.

[Twodogs]

It seems inconceivable that his ongoing omission isn't political. He must have upset somebody in his administration days.

It's a conspiracy for sure.

[bornadog]

It's a conspiracy for sure.

Jerks at the AFL

[merantau]

Arthur Edwards wore #11 in a 10 year 120 game career at Footscray. He debuted in Rd 1 1951 and retired in 1960.

A 185cm 80kg ruckman he played in our 1954 Premiership team and was recruited from Sunshine Tech. A fine mark he rested in the back pocket. Of the '54 team Ted Whitten was the only member to play on at Footscray after 1960.

[merantau]

Seasons 1969 - 1973 saw Laurie Rippon wear #11 for 45 games.
From Welshpool he stood 197cm and weighed 99kg. Played in the ruck.

[merantau]

Tony McGuinness was a much decorated footballer who had a 16 year career spread across Glenelg, us and Adelaide. He played 325 games and kicked 361 goals. He played 108 games for us and kicked 109 goals. He won our B&F in 1987. He was a quality player - fast, skilled and a great kick on the run. After he left us he captained Adelaide.⁷

[Bulldog4life]

Number 9 for us from from 1970-76 was Ian "sockeye" Salmon who played 113 games and kicked 36 goals. Centre half forward/second ruck type.

[bornadog]

Number 9 for us from from 1970-76 was Ian "sockeye" Salmon who played 113 games and kicked 36 goals. Centre half forward/second ruck type.

Who can forget big Sockeye

[merantau]

Number 9 for us from from 1970-76 was Ian "sockeye" Salmon who played 113 games and kicked 36 goals. Centre half forward/second ruck type.

He started out with #9 but then switched to #18 for six seasons. He was big solid player whose curly blonde hair could not be missed. A left footer, he gave us some good footy.

[Ozza]

Nobody brought up Brad Nicholson in the #9.

[Twodogs]

Who can forget big Sockeye

Biggest elbows in the comp!

[bornadog]

He started out with #9 but then switched to #18 for six seasons. He was big solid player whose curly blonde hair could not be missed. A left footer, he gave us some good footy.

Yes, Sandilands grabbed 9 as you have reported.

[Bulldog4life]

He started out with #9 but then switched to #18 for six seasons. He was big solid player whose curly blonde hair could not be missed. A left footer, he gave us some good footy.

Yes I remember now. Thanks merantau.

[merantau]

In 1995 Jose Romero arrived and took over #11 for one season before reverting to #36, the number he wore at North. So we will discuss him later.

[merantau]

Todd Curley arrived from Collingwood via West Perth in 1996, took over #11 and wore it for 114 games in which he kicked 47 goals. He retired at the end of the 2001 season and went back West where he took up a coaching role at West Perth and later he joined the Dockers as an assistant coach.

[merantau]

Daniel Bandy arrived in 2002 and wore the #11 for four seasons. He had an excellent first year playing 22 games and kicking 30 goals. At 6'6" he was a big unit and he could run as well.
All up he played 45 games and kicked 46 goals. His career was blighted by recurring injuries - 23 games in his last 3 years with us.

[merantau]

2013 saw the debut of our current #11 Jack Macrae. And what a player he is! Tremendously brave, totally committed and runs all day and is a vital cog in our midfield. His pressure goal v GWS is part of Bulldogs folklore.
Jacko is an absolute ball magnet - the youngest ever to accumulate 40 possession in a game. Twice All Australian, consistently high in the Brownlow, knocking on the door for B&F honours, I am 100% sure he will be a one club player. One thing the surprised me: according to Wikipedia he is 6'3"!! Has now played 159 games.

[merantau]

Alex Gardiner played in #12 from '55 to '62 and racked up 92 games. He had lots of pace and was called "Racehorse". He played on the wing and was part of our centreline in the '61 GF side alongside Bob Spargo and Ian Bryant.
Alex left in '63 to become captain coach of Box Hill in the VFA - a role he played for 5 years.

[merantau]

Colin Dell first appeared in '71 wearing #48 then switched to #12 for the next six seasons. He played 66 games as a defender. Was captain of the Reserves for a few seasons. Went to Brunswick for 2 years and ended up playing in the FDFL.

[GVGjr]

Colin Dell first appeared in '71 wearing #48 then switched to #12 for the next six seasons. He played 66 games as a defender. Was captain of the Reserves for a few seasons. Went to Brunswick for 2 years and ended up playing in the FDFL.

Was Dell's nickname "Ding Dong"?

[Bulldog4life]

Alex Gardiner played in #12 from '55 to '62 and racked up 92 games. He had lots of pace and was called "Racehorse". He played on the wing and was part of our centreline in the '61 GF side alongside Bob Spargo and Ian Bryant.
Alex left in '63 to become captain coach of Box Hill in the VFA - a role he played for 5 years.

Gee the racehorse was fast. Also played with Barry Smith on the other wing if I remember correctly when Bryant went to the back pocket. Smith was a talented player too.

[Bulldog4life]

Alex's father who also was named Alex played with the doggies in the twenties for one season too

[merantau]

Gee the racehorse was fast. Also played with Barry Smith on the other wing if I remember correctly when Bryant went to the back pocket. Smith was a talented player too.

Indeed he was a talented player. Super quick and elusive which you had to be when you only weighed 68kg!

[Bulldog4life]

Indeed he was a talented player. Super quick and elusive which you had to be when you only weighed 68kg!

https://maribyrnonghobsonsbay.starweekly.com.au/sport/alecgardiner/

A Bulldog reflects on ’61, hopes for glory in ’16

Among the millions of people who will be watching and hoping the Western Bulldogs win the AFL premiership, will be Gisborne’s Alec Gardiner.

Gardiner is one of just a few former Bulldogs players who have previously played on football’s biggest stage – he played in the Bulldogs 1961 grand final team that lost to Hawthorn. The Bulldogs’ only other grand final was in 1954 when they won their only premiership.

“It is terrific after such a long wait and so many disappointments along the way,” Gardiner said ahead of the grand final.

“We’ve been waiting this long for someone else to take the mantle. It’s one of those titles you don’t really want to hold on to – the last team to get into the grand final.

“The way they’ve done it so exciting and a bit of a fairytale. Everyone is talking about them and getting on board.”

Gardiner arrived at the Bulldogs, who were known as Footscray back, in 1955 – the year after the premiership.

He had played for Gisborne for three years, including being runner-up in the local competition’s best-and-fairest award at the age of 17.

The Gardiner family is one of the best known in the local sports community. The main sports ground is Gisborne is named the Gardiner Reserve.

His father, Alec Gardiner sr, played 23 games at the Bulldogs in the 1920s.

“There was an understanding if I was any good I would go there [Footscray],” Gardiner said.

“I idolised these guys. After two games, I was in the side which played in the premiership the year before.”

He played alongside the great Teddy Whitten, who captained the side and later coached it.

He recalls that 1961 season as being similar to 2016, with the Bulldogs not expected to be in the grand final.

“We had an average age of 21,” he said.

“Everyone speaks about the Dogs’ handballing these days – we had own sort of handball called the flick pass.

“Teddy Whitten specialised in it, though it was a later banned.

“We played St Kilda and defeated them. We then play Melbourne, the powerhouse of the competition, and we beat them in the preliminary final.”

The Bulldogs fairytale story didn’t continue as a bigger and stronger Hawthorn side ran over the top of them in front of 107,000 supporters at the MCG.

The Bulldogs led by eight points at half-time, but the Hawks eventually won 13.16 (94)-7.9 (51).

As well as losing the game, it was painful for Gardiner, who played on the wing.

“We were really young, fast and quick,” he said. “Hawthorn was known as Kennedy’s Commandos. They were much bigger and stronger.

“We led at half-time, but the dressing room looked like a first aid room.

“I got a bad corkie in the second quarter and got another on top of that in the third quarter and that was the end of me.

“It was pretty disappointing to lose – we’d done pretty well as a team.”

Gardiner left the Bulldogs after the 1962 season and headed to Victorian Football Association to coach Box Hill.

He had played 92 games at the Bulldogs. He also met the then vice-president’s daughter, Jacki, who he would go onto marry.

He said he left mainly for the money, as league footballers weren’t paid much at the time and coaching gave him the chance to earn a bit more. Despite playing just 73 games for Box Hill he was named captain in its greatest ever team line-up.

As well as coaching, Gardiner got into the fitness side of things – and that led to him returning to the then VFL.

He was also chairman of selectors at Fitzroy, where he had the rare honour of being one of the few people in that role to be sacked.

These days Gardiner lives back in his home town of Gisborne. At 82 he said he would have liked to go to the grand final and had the opportunity, but would instead watch every moment from home.

He said he would love nothing more than to see a Bulldogs’ premiership.

“It will be wonderful to see the kids get up,” he said. “They deserve it and it would be just reward for the work that has been done.

“The club was in tatters not too long ago.”

[merantau]

Colin Dell took an absolute hanger over Des Tuddenham at Victoria Park. I will try and locate the photo and put it up.

[merantau]

Thanks for posting - great read.

[merantau]

Colin Dell took an absolute hanger over Des Tuddenham at Victoria Park. I will try and locate the photo and put it up.

Here it is.

https://images.app.goo.gl/QQvqDJjFpF3KCgrA6

[Bulldog4life]

Here it is.

https://images.app.goo.gl/QQvqDJjFpF3KCgrA6

I remember that now. High as Joe Cocker. Wonder if it was mark of the year or did they have it then?

[merantau]

1986 saw Greg Epplestun debut wearing #46. He switched next season to #12 and wore it for the rest of his 7 year career with us which yielded 102 games and one goal.. A tough, dour defender he took some big scalps down back. Went to North for one year but injured his groin in the first round and the injury got the better of him and forced retirement.

[merantau]

"James Cook appeared in the #12 in season 1996 and played 4 seasons. From Carlton he was a good leading, strong marking, long kicking full forward. He played 49 games and booted 96 goals.

I acknowledge Wikipedia for the following on his career with us.


After struggling in his first year at Footscray, Cook played the best football of his career in 1997, with the club now re-branded the Western Bulldogs. He kicked 36 goals for the season, 17 of them in the final three games as the Bulldogs fell just short of making a Grand Final, to finish third in their goal-kicking behind Simon Minton-Connell and Chris Grant. His run started in round 22 when he kicked seven goals and three behinds against Hawthorn. He then kicked a game high four goals to help his club defeat Sydney in the Qualifying Final, outperforming Swans forward Tony Lockett. Cook then kick six goals in the preliminary final against Adelaide. He could have had seven, but an apple thrown from the crowd disrupted the kick when he went for his seventh goal. This would prove to be costly, as the crows came back to win by two points, ending the Bulldog's season.

In 1998 he kicked 23 goals from 11 appearances and in 1999 he finished with 32 from 19 games. On five occasions during this time he kicked five goals or more but also played many games where he saw little of the ball and he was offloaded to Melbourne in the 1999 Pre-Season Draft."

[bornadog]

delete

[bornadog]

1986 saw Greg Epplestun debut wearing #46. He switched next season to #12 and wore it for the rest of his 7 year career with us which yielded 102 games and one goal.. A tough, dour defender he took some big scalps down back. Went to North for one year but injured his groin in the first round and the injury got the better of him and forced retirement.

I remember Greg fixing up Ablett a few times and frustrating him. One game, Ablett gave him a big whack in the stomach, but to Greg's credit (after the pain went away), continued to beat him.

[Bulldog4life]

"James Cook appeared in the #12 in season 1996 and played 4 seasons. From Carlton he was a good leading, strong marking, long kicking full forward. He played 49 games and booted 96 goals.

I acknowledge Wikipedia for the following on his career with us.


After struggling in his first year at Footscray, Cook played the best football of his career in 1997, with the club now re-branded the Western Bulldogs. He kicked 36 goals for the season, 17 of them in the final three games as the Bulldogs fell just short of making a Grand Final, to finish third in their goal-kicking behind Simon Minton-Connell and Chris Grant. His run started in round 22 when he kicked seven goals and three behinds against Hawthorn. He then kicked a game high four goals to help his club defeat Sydney in the Qualifying Final, outperforming Swans forward Tony Lockett. Cook then kick six goals in the preliminary final against Adelaide. He could have had seven, but an apple thrown from the crowd disrupted the kick when he went for his seventh goal. This would prove to be costly, as the crows came back to win by two points, ending the Bulldog's season.

In 1998 he kicked 23 goals from 11 appearances and in 1999 he finished with 32 from 19 games. On five occasions during this time he kicked five goals or more but also played many games where he saw little of the ball and he was offloaded to Melbourne in the 1999 Pre-Season Draft."

You just knew it wasn't to be our game when a bloody thrown apple costs us a goal.

[merantau]

Was Dell's nickname "Ding Dong"?

It took me a while to remember but his nickname was "Cedel" after a popular brand of soap.

[merantau]

Tom Williams was with us for 8 seasons - '07 to '14. A Queenslander from a rugby background he spent more time in the medical room and doing re-hab than he did on the training track or running around in games - 8 years for 83 games.

I believe he donated his collection of moon boots to NASA. Tom had tremendous mental toughness. Only the most determined could get through what he endured and I'm sure he earned the respect of all at the Club. He could play. It was just tragic that his body and rotten luck conspired to hold him back.

From Wikipedia: "On 4 October 2007, Williams and fellow team member Daniel Cross leaped into the water of Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong to rescue a woman attempting to commit suicide. The woman did not want to be saved. They hauled her to safety after hearing bystanders screaming for help. When they emerged from the harbour they both had minor bruises and cuts. Both were reported to be in good spirits after the incident.[5]

Following the incident, both Williams and Cross were awarded certificates of commendation by Hong Kong's Director of Marine.[6]"

[merantau]

Zaine Cordy arrived wearing #12 in 2015. He has played a number of roles in his six seasons which have seen him run out 85 times. Back up ruck, defensive forward, defender - he has done whatever has been asked.
His 2016 finals series was excellent. He kicked some really important goals. His crunching tackle and goal from the boundary got us up and running in the GF. He plays his role and it's handy to have a player with his versatility to call on.

[merantau]

2001 - 2014 - 15 years, 265 games, 331 goals - Daniel Giansiracusa. Gia was a super player. Taken at pick 32 in the National draft he booted a goal with his first kick.
A very reliable kick for goal, clever, unselfish - in short a great team player.
Daniel captained our 2010 NAB Cup winning team in Jonnos absence. Later in his career he played the "sub" to perfection. I remember the game against Richmond when he outsmarted Brandon Ellis to give us the win. Great servant of the club and much loved.

[bornadog]

2001 - 2014 - 15 years, 265 games, 331 goals - Daniel Giansiracusa. Gia was a super player. To be continued

Is Gia the best number 13?

[Bulldog4life]

Is Gia the best number 13?

By far. For a number of seasons it wasn't used.

[merantau]

Champion ruckman John Schultz debuted in 1958 wearing #32. He switched to #14 in '59 and wore it for the remainder of his 188 game 11 year career.
Brownlow Medalist 1960, 5 times B&F, All - Australian, played 21 games for the Vics, chosen by the VFL to explain the game to Queen Elizabeth, Bulldog Team of the Century, AFL Premiership Cup Ambassador on the Big Day in 2016 - a giant of the Club.

He was a tireless ruckman for us. Strong but scrupulously fair he played his heart out for the RWB. Much loved man.

[merantau]

Debuting in 1969 Barry Round played in #14 for 135 games kicking 136 goals. He was a giant of a man standing 6'4" and weighing 17 stone.
At Sydney, in 1981 he won the Brownlow alongside Bernie Quinlan - bitter pill to swallow.

After 193 games with the Swans he went to Williamstown as captain coach. He won the Liston Trophy in 1987 and the Norm Goss Medal for the best player in the 1990 GF when he was 40 years old. He retired in 1991 aged 41 after playing 438 games of senior football in which he kicked 396 goals over a 23 year career in the VFL, AFL, VFA - a truly remarkable achievement.

[Twodogs]

You just knew it wasn't to be our game when a bloody thrown apple costs us a goal.

Ironically I was reading a footy book just the other day and it mentioned that it happened to Doug Wade in the late '60s. It was against Carlton I think and cost Geelong the chance to win the game.

[merantau]

1978 - 86 saw Robert Gronewegen wear the #14 for 79 games. He lost the entire 1981 season due to a knee reconstruction.

Ex-Braybrook, "Groner" played as a key forward or in the ruck. He went to Tasmania to continue his footballing career and achieved success in playing and coaching with Glenorchy and North Launceston.

Is now Ground Manager at York Park and has had a successful print and radio career in Tasmania. Member of the Tasmanian Football Hall of Fame.

[merantau]

1994 saw the arrival of Luke Darcy in the #40 jumper. He took over #14 the next year and wore it until retirement in 2007 - 226 games, 183 goals 97 behinds.

Son of Bulldog great David Darcy, Luke established himself quickly as a skilled, mobile ruckman who could take a mark and kick a goal.

B&F winner 2001. Leading goalkicker 2004 - a very fine player indeed.
In Rd 6 2005 against Geelong he injured his knee and then in Dec 2005, in the last training session of the year, he dislocated his knee and lost the entire 2006 season - terrible.

Luke was a terrific player for us who forged a wonderful career.

[merantau]

2008 saw Callan Ward arrive wearing #14. He was with us for 4 years and played 60 games. Given his Western Suburbs background it was very sad that he left for GWS. He turned his back on us. He left his mates. It cost him a Premiership. You make your bed, you lie in it.

[Grantysghost]

2008 saw Callan Ward arrive wearing #14. He was with us for 4 years and played 60 games. Given his Western Suburbs background it was very sad that he left for GWS. He turned his back on us. He left his mates. It cost him a Premiership. You make your bed, you lie in it.

Too soon :cool:

[merantau]

Clay Smith arrived in 2012 and retired at the end of 2017 - 6 seasons for 55 games and 43 goals. But numbers are totally inadequate to describe the grit, conviction and determination that this steely character brought to the table. Four goals on debut, three knee reconstructions and yet he still managed to play his finest football in the 2016 Finals campaign.

He was there in pivotal moments. Boring in, refusing to concede, willing himself to every contest, clearing a path for Caleb Daniel's crucial goal late in the 3rd quarter against GWS. This on top of his four first half goals. Clay Smith - a Bulldog immortal.

[merantau]

John Quarrell, a wing/half forward from Terang debuted in '57 wearing #15. He played 53 games over six seasons. A left footer he booted two goals in the '61 GF. He initially played on permits and Terang twice refused to clear him. He passed away in 2000 aged 62.

[merantau]

David Darcy wore #15 from '63 to '71. In '67 he was transferred to Adelaide for work. He played for South Adelaide and came 3rd in the Margery Medal despite playing only 11 games.
He played his first season with us as a forward but thereafter went to full back where he starred. He played 133 games and represented Victoria 4 times. He was sometimes thrown forward and he booted 47 goals from CHF.

He returned to South Adelaide in 1972 as Captain Coach

[merantau]

David Darcy wore #15 from '63 to '71. In '67 he was transferred to Adelaide for work. He played for South Adelaide and came 3rd in the Margery Medal despite playing only 11 games.
He played his first season with us as a forward but thereafter went to full back where he starred. He played 133 games and represented Victoria 4 times. He was sometimes thrown forward and he booted 47 goals from CHF.

He returned to South Adelaide in 1972 as Captain Coach a position he hald for 2 years. He retired and became non playing coach in 1974.

David passed away in 2020 aged 76. He was a very fine player. The inheritor of Herb Henderson's legacy - the attacking full back.

[merantau]

Denis Collins, ex-Braybrook FC, played 100 games for us been '72 to '77. He started wearing #48, then 22 and finally #15 for his last three seasons with us.
He was a really good player on the wing. Fast and a beautiful kick he booted 60 goals in his 100 appearances.

Went to Carlton for a year and Richmond for two. All up 147 games.
Died in WA from heart attack aged just 58.

[merantau]

Alan Jennings from Traralgon played 9 games in 1982 wearing #15. A half forward he kicked 5, 5 and 3 goals in his first 3 games.

He was then diagnosed with arhythmia of the heart and forced into retirement. Could play.

[merantau]

Beginning in 1986 Murray Rance from Swan Districts played two seasons and 40 games in the #15. He went back West and played 57 games for West Coast and captained them for a season.

[merantau]

Scott Wynd played 1 game in 1988 wearing #52. Thereafter he wore #15 until retirement in 2000 - 237 games.
Won the B&F, Brownlow and was selected All-Australian in 1992. Club Captain 1994 - 2000. Bulldog Team of the Century. Great player. Great leader. I remember one particular away game against West Coast. We were leading but in danger of being overun. Scott dropped back into the hole and marked repeatedly to turn the tide and help cement a famous win. Lion hearted player.

https://youtu.be/9qp1mLzscZs

[Bulldog4life]

Scott Wynd played 1 game in 1988 wearing #52. Thereafter he wore #15 until retirement in 2000 - 237 games.
Won the B&F, Brownlow and was selected All-Australian in 1992. Club Captain 1994 - 2000. Bulldog Team of the Century. Great player. Great leader. I remember one particular away game against West Coast. We were leading but in danger of being overun. Scott dropped back into the hole and marked repeatedly to turn the tide and help cement a famous win. Lion hearted player.

https://youtu.be/9qp1mLzscZs

He used to do the same when we played against Tony Lockett. Brave man was our Scotty.

[bornadog]

He used to do the same when we played against Tony Lockett. Brave man was our Scotty.

He got crunched a few times. One at Princes Park and had to be carried off.

Scotty was one of my favourite Ruckman.

[merantau]

In 2002 Sam Power donned the #15 and wore it for six seasons and 84 games. Used mainly in the midfield Sam ended up North for two years and another 39 games - so all up 123 games
In 2017 he was appointed our List Manager and he has been doing an outstanding job IMO.

[merantau]

In 2008 Ben Hudson arrived from Adelaide and played with us for four years and 88 games in the #15. An true ruckman he gave us good service and was a very popular players both with team mates and supporters. Went on to play at Brisbane and Collingwood. 168 games in total - good effort from a bloke who debuted at the age of 24.

[merantau]

So, just for a break, I thought I might pause for a while and open up discussion on who's been the best #1, #2 and so on down the line to number #15. It's limited to those players who've repesented us from 1954 onwards.
So for #1 I'll go for Andrew Purser.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

Scott Wynd played 1 game in 1988 wearing #52. Thereafter he wore #15 until retirement in 2000 - 237 games.
Won the B&F, Brownlow and was selected All-Australian in 1992. Club Captain 1994 - 2000. Bulldog Team of the Century. Great player. Great leader. I remember one particular away game against West Coast. We were leading but in danger of being overun. Scott dropped back into the hole and marked repeatedly to turn the tide and help cement a famous win. Lion hearted player.

https://youtu.be/9qp1mLzscZs

Absolute legend. Best ruckman since Dempsey. Had a knee reco before we recruited him. The story goes that North would have signed him on a 'form 4' but they turned up a day late.

Players walked tall when Scotty was out there and ex players have remarked over the years what a great leader he was.
Worth listening to Murp interviewing him on the barkly st podcast.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

Thanks for all the great work Merantau. Really appreciate it.

[EasternWest]

So, just for a break, I thought I might pause for a while and open up discussion on who's been the best #1, #2 and so on down the line to number #15. It's limited to those players who've repesented us from 1954 onwards.
So for #1 I'll go for Andrew Purser.

Don't any of you dare.

[Grantysghost]

https://media.giphy.com/media/3IUZ4ygY0eODYgciHO/giphy.gif

[merantau]

Thanks for all the great work Merantau. Really appreciate it.

It's been my pleasure. I've not been very active in starting threads so thought it was about time I contributed.
The Dogs have been a big part of my life; have given me a lot of joy and a lot of suffering - the emotional roller coaster has always been the ride that makes you feel most alive!
And the thing that I will always be in debt to the Club for is this: In 2016 I experienced the most wonderful finals campaign ever put together by any club ever!
I waited for 55 years to see us play in another Grand Final. I rode my motorbike back from Sumbawa to Lombok and flew home to watch the Grand Final with my beautiful daughter Melissa. The win was achieved in the most exciting way possible in a game that went down to the wire - a game that was jam packed with unforgettable passages of play and individual heroics.
To be a part of that emotional tsunami of joy is something that we will all treasure to our dying day. And I cannot wait for us to do it again -altough it is going to be a very tough gig to equal the emotional high I experienced in 2016!

[EasternWest]

https://media.giphy.com/media/3IUZ4ygY0eODYgciHO/giphy.gif

Motion to have grantysghost temporarily banned from the forum for disrespecting this great thread.

[Grantysghost]

Motion to have grantysghost temporarily banned from the forum for disrespecting this great thread.

Seconded.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

So, just for a break, I thought I might pause for a while and open up discussion on who's been the best #1, #2 and so on down the line to number #15. It's limited to those players who've repesented us from 1954 onwards.
So for #1 I'll go for Andrew Purser.

Ok so i will just go from the time ive followed them circa 1970.

Yep would have to be Purser. So consistent and just a pity he didn't come over from WA sooner.
Minton-Connell was more than handy.
Justin Charles was probably the one that had so much potential and loved his enthusiasm.


1.

[bornadog]

Purser number one for me too. Malthouse once said he was the best ruckman he had coached, and that is saying something considering who he coached at West Coast and Collingwood.

[Twodogs]

He got crunched a few times. One at Princes Park and had to be carried off.

Scotty was one of my favourite Ruckman.

I thought that he was dead. The way he lay in the middle of the ground and convulsed I really feared the worse. Barry Stanfield took over ruck duties and gave Justin Madden (who ran through the centre square and picked Wynd off) a hiding and helped to win us the game.


Absolute legend. Best ruckman since Dempsey. Had a knee reco before we recruited him. The story goes that North would have signed him on a 'form 4' but they turned up a day late.

Players walked tall when Scotty was out there and ex players have remarked over the years what a great leader he was.
Worth listening to Murp interviewing him on the barkly st podcast.

North had the sole option on him him up until he turned 17. The story goes that Gary Merrington who was our recruiting officer at the time had somehow worked out that North thought that Scott was a year younger than he was and as such had another year up their sleeve to make a move in him. Merrington signed Wynd to us at 12.01am on the day (night) he turned 17!

[merantau]

Gary Merrington - ex-Braybrook FC, ex-Tottenham Tech. Plenty of street smarts there!

[merantau]

Best #2? We've had some grand players in the #2. But for mine three stand out - Jack Collins, Bernie Quinlan and Bob Murphy. Best player overall was Quinlan but his best was not with us so I'm going to go with Bob.

[bornadog]

Best #2? We've had some grand players in the #2. But for mine three stand out - Jack Collins, Bernie Quinlan and Bob Murphy. Best player overall was Quinlan but his best was not with us so I'm going to go with Bob.

Agree with you. Bernie was good but you have to look at him when he played with us.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

Yep Murphy. Jimmy Sewell was a very handy no. 2 as was Stevie Kolyniuk.

[GVGjr]

Best #2? We've had some grand players in the #2. But for mine three stand out - Jack Collins, Bernie Quinlan and Bob Murphy. Best player overall was Quinlan but his best was not with us so I'm going to go with Bob.

I get why Murphy is a popular player and you can't dismiss the way he got everyone to rally around him when Griffen left us but gee he doesn't get close to the caliber of Quinlan in my opinion and I'm measuring it for the games he played with us and not including Fitzroy
His durability was impressive and his ability to swing games our way should never be underestimated
Murphy was a neat player but Quinlan had that star quality

[merantau]

And so on to #3. For me Ted Whitten is the standout. He didn't just dominate games - he dominated the competition. It didn't seem to matter where we were on the ladder Ted and the Bulldogs were always in the news. He was one of a kind.

Not far behind him in skill, courage and commitment to the Bulldogs would be Chris Grant - certainly compares with the greats of any era for his complete mastery of all aspects of the game. Others may have kicked more goals but many of them were one dimensional mark and kick players. Chris could do it all and at either end of the ground - super player.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

Granty. He just played at such a high level for such a long time all over the ground. Emerging at the same time as Carey, who was probably the greatest CHF of all time meant that he may not have got the due accolades from opposition supporters. But he was a superstar.

[EasternWest]

And so on to #3. For me Ted Whitten is the standout. He didn't just dominate games - he dominated the competition. It didn't seem to matter where we were on the ladder Ted and the Bulldogs were always in the news. He was one of a kind.

Not far behind him in skill, courage and commitment to the Bulldogs would be Chris Grant - certainly compares with the greats of any era for his complete mastery of all aspects of the game. Others may have kicked more goals but many of them were one dimensional mark and kick players. Chris could do it all and at either end of the ground - super player.

Chris Grant. The best Bulldog player I've seen with my own eyes (I still love you, Bont).

[bornadog]

Chris Grant. The best Bulldog player I've seen with my own eyes (I still love you, Bont).

Ditto

[merantau]

And now on to #4. For me it's Marcus Bontempelli by the length of the straight. He is a marvellous player who can do things that the large majority of players can't. He is destined to be our next Premiership captain. Still very young but has always been mature for his age. Captaincy suits him well. He is the real deal.

[bornadog]

And now on to #4. For me it's Marcus Bontempelli by the length of the straight. He is a marvellous player who can do things that the large majority of players can't. He is destined to be our next Premiership captain. Still very young but has always been mature for his age. Captaincy suits him well. He is the real deal.

Can't argue with that

[merantau]

And so on to #5. We've had some very fine players wear the #5. The standouts are Mathew Boyd and Rohan Smith. Both gave fantastic service to the club - "Bubba" played 300 games, kicked 254 goals, filled a number of roles and never left anything in the change room. Twice All-Australian born in Yarraville, played for the Club he loved - and it showed.

Ditto Mathew Boyd. Came out of the rookie draft and never looked back - 292 games, the most of any player playing AFL via that route. Re-purposed as a half back late in his career and became a more effective player: won his 3rd All Australian in our Premiership year.

Three times B&F and Club Captain. Mathew Boyd is our best ever #5.

[Nuggety Back Pocket]

Best #2? We've had some grand players in the #2. But for mine three stand out - Jack Collins, Bernie Quinlan and Bob Murphy. Best player overall was Quinlan but his best was not with us so I'm going to go with Bob.

Very hard to make comparisons as all three were Club champions. Collins won two Club B &F’s at CHB before a master stroke by coach Charlie Sutton saw him become an outstanding key forward with 7 goals in our ‘54 Premiership and on one occasion booting 10 goals in a State game for Victoria. Bernie Quinlan was probably the most gifted player you would ever have the pleasure of watching. Former 1930’s Captain and Champion player Roy Evans and then Assistant senior Coach for many years said he would attend Footscray games just to see Quinlan play.
Robert Murphy’s mental toughness and eventual leadership to play 300 hundred plus games was an excellent servant in more recent years and rarely played a poor game.

[merantau]

Thanks for that info. I did not realise Jack played at CHB. I only saw him from '56 onwards. He was a terrific in the air and when the ball hit the ground he was very hard to move off it and very hard to tackle. I guess he had a lot of core strength and great balance to go with it.

[merantau]

Our two standout #6s IMO have been George Bisset and Brad Johnson. George played most of his football in pretty mediocre teams up until his last 3 seasons where we won more games than we lost but still didn't make the finals. I mentioned earlier that I hoped supporters didn't disrespect him when he went to Collingwood.

Nuggety BP has set out the reasons why he left. I was overseas for those two seasons he spent at Collingwood so have no idea how his move was received. He was a great player for us and was robbed of a Brownlow medal by a ludicrous voting system another version of which is still in play today.

For example a player who is rubbed out in Round 1 is ineligible to win but he can still be awarded votes for the rest of the season thus denying the opportunity to players who are still eligible to be awarded votes. It's possible someone could already have been denied a Brownlow due to that anomaly. Anyway, enough of that. George was a champion player without a doubt.


The only #6 better than him is Brad Johnson - definitely one of the finest all-round footballers we've seen don the RWB. I don't think I've ever seen a more consistent one grab contested mark from a medium sized player. Had all the skills, super fit, great leader, loved the Club and played with the same passion as George.

[bornadog]

I will go Brad to be best number 6

[HOSE B ROMERO]

And now on to #4. For me it's Marcus Bontempelli by the length of the straight. He is a marvellous player who can do things that the large majority of players can't. He is destined to be our next Premiership captain. Still very young but has always been mature for his age. Captaincy suits him well. He is the real deal.

As Bruce said in that final against Hawthorn: 'It's him; of course it's him'.

Honourable mention to Crossy.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

And so on to #5. We've had some very fine players wear the #5. The standouts are Mathew Boyd and Rohan Smith. Both gave fantastic service to the club - "Bubba" played 300 games, kicked 254 goals, filled a number of roles and never left anything in the change room. Twice All-Australian born in Yarraville, played for the Club he loved - and it showed.

Ditto Mathew Boyd. Came out of the rookie draft and never looked back - 292 games, the most of any player playing AFL via that route. Re-purposed as a half back late in his career and became a more effective player: won his 3rd All Australian in our Premiership year.

Three times B&F and Club Captain. Mathew Boyd is our best ever #5.

Talk about cream of the crop with these 2. Double cream even.
Bubba was eye catching and played with passion. Versatile.

Boydy was just a steely eyed tasmanian devil. Powerful. And a leader.
Boydy by a whisker.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

Our two standout #6s IMO have been George Bisset and Brad Johnson. George played most of his football in pretty mediocre teams up until his last 3 seasons where we won more games than we lost but still didn't make the finals. I mentioned earlier that I hoped supporters didn't disrespect him when he went to Collingwood.

Nuggety BP has set out the reasons why he left. I was overseas for those two seasons he spent at Collingwood so have no idea how his move was received. He was a great player for us and was robbed of a Brownlow medal by a ludicrous voting system another version of which is still in play today.

For example a player who is rubbed out in Round 1 is ineligible to win but he can still be awarded votes for the rest of the season thus denying the opportunity to players who are still eligible to be awarded votes. It's possible someone could already have been denied a Brownlow due to that anomaly. Anyway, enough of that. George was a champion player without a doubt.


The only #6 better than him is Brad Johnson - definitely one of the finest all-round footballers we've seen don the RWB. I don't think I've ever seen a more consistent one grab contested mark from a medium sized player. Had all the skills, super fit, great leader, loved the Club and played with the same passion as George.

Thanks for the insights. Georgie left as i came on board.

Johnno was a beauty and i agree re his marking capability. No other club would even attempt to prise him away from his beloved dogs.

[merantau]

We have had two outstanding #7s in Doug Hawkins and Scott West. Both 300+ games players, All -Austraĺians, B&F winners and outstanding footballers.
Who was the better player? That's a very difficult question to answer. Scott's seven B&F and regular high finishes in the Brownlow would indicate that he was thought of by most as being the better player. But then again, being in the action more gave him more opportunity to win the ball compared to Doug who played on the wing for most of his career. Doug was certainly a more skilled player on both sides of his body and a more spectacular player. Scott was the ultimate work horse grinding away providing opportunities for others. Doug kicked more goals and had more score involvements I think.

Very hard to split these two. Scott's overall record points to him being considered the better player but I think Doug remains the sentimental favourite of the supporters. It's a tough one.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Westys consistency was unmatched. Saw the tail end of Doug who was clearly more talented but West was in the best few players on the ground every single week.

[bornadog]

Doug was exciting to watch and had brilliant skills and was a match winner when he was needed. His 1985 finals series was brilliant.

But - I do love Westy as well. I will stick to Doug as the best number 7

[westbulldog]

And so on to #3. For me Ted Whitten is the standout. He didn't just dominate games - he dominated the competition. It didn't seem to matter where we were on the ladder Ted and the Bulldogs were always in the news. He was one of a kind.

Not far behind him in skill, courage and commitment to the Bulldogs would be Chris Grant - certainly compares with the greats of any era for his complete mastery of all aspects of the game. Others may have kicked more goals but many of them were one dimensional mark and kick players. Chris could do it all and at either end of the ground - super player.

This is a fine thread Merantau, very well done. Here is my take on these two champions.

Mr Football speaks for himself, I was privileged to see him play and once met him. His handshake nearly broke my hand. He had every skill in the book plus immense courage, he was larger than life and was a great leader of men. Who will ever forget that motorcade lap at the G. His State funeral exemplifies his status in football and wider Victoria, people lined the streets and wept, say no more.

Chris Grant played 341 games for us every one of them with great skill, fairness and courage.
In 1997 he was robbed as the sole winner of the Brownlow medal having polled 27 votes. He was suspended in a Round 7 clash with Hawthorn, having been given a one-match ban for striking Nick Holland.
The umpires didn't report him but Ian Collins took an appeal to the tribunal, what bs that was, what a disgrace.
At the end of 1996 Grant was rumoured to be offered $1.5m to be the marquee player at Port Adelaide when they joined the AFL in 1997 - he stayed with the Dogs, he is loyal and respected to a fault.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

Two champion number 7's and would be in most top 5's.
Hawk had all the skills and was a great player.
Westy was just so consistent. Seven b&f's, Gave his all through 9 or 10 final series. Super professional on match day or training.
Close but West for mine.

[merantau]

So on to #8. Another tough one. We have had a succession of very good players appear in the #8 going way back to Max Cross in 1956.

For me the three standouts are Bob Spargo, Rick Kennedy and Mitch Hahn. All very fine players. I was gutted when Bob went west as he was really starting to shine and was at his prime.

I give it to Rick for his on field leadership. He didn't leave anyone wondering about his commitment to the team and his desire to win. Mitch was the same. Totally courageous and committed. We have been well served by the #8.

[bornadog]

So on to #8. Another tough one. We have had a succession of very good players appear in the #8 going way back to Max Cross in 1956.

For me the three standouts are Bob Spargo, Rick Kennedy and Mitch Hahn. All very fine players. I was gutted when Bob went west as he was really starting to shine and was at his prime.

I give it to Rick for his on field leadership. He didn't leave anyone wondering about his commitment to the team and his desire to win. Mitch was the same. Totally courageous and committed. We have been well served by the #8.

Yes, Rick Kennedy for sure

[Mofra]

And now on to #4. For me it's Marcus Bontempelli by the length of the straight. He is a marvellous player who can do things that the large majority of players can't. He is destined to be our next Premiership captain. Still very young but has always been mature for his age. Captaincy suits him well. He is the real deal.
Some notable number 4's in my time - Crossy was a heart and soul player, and Nigel Kellett was a mainstay for a few seasons. Back in the day of kids growing up in the west prior to playing for the dogs

[Mofra]

So on to #8. Another tough one. We have had a succession of very good players appear in the #8 going way back to Max Cross in 1956.

For me the three standouts are Bob Spargo, Rick Kennedy and Mitch Hahn. All very fine players. I was gutted when Bob went west as he was really starting to shine and was at his prime.

I give it to Rick for his on field leadership. He didn't leave anyone wondering about his commitment to the team and his desire to win. Mitch was the same. Totally courageous and committed. We have been well served by the #8.
It's been a 'tough nut' number for a long time. I had no 8 on my jumper as a kid for Kennedy.
Trengove did it proud, and I'm glad Stef Martin is wearing it this year.

Did Bernard Toohey rock the number 8 in his day?

[merantau]

Yes, Bernard Toohey did #8 proud. Always ran in straight lines and it wasn't because of any knee injury either.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

So on to #8. Another tough one. We have had a succession of very good players appear in the #8 going way back to Max Cross in 1956.

For me the three standouts are Bob Spargo, Rick Kennedy and Mitch Hahn. All very fine players. I was gutted when Bob went west as he was really starting to shine and was at his prime.

I give it to Rick for his on field leadership. He didn't leave anyone wondering about his commitment to the team and his desire to win. Mitch was the same. Totally courageous and committed. We have been well served by the #8.

Rick for mine. Always ran in straight lines and made sure if his fist didn't get the ball it collected the back of someone's noggin. Had some great tussles with Brian Taylor, Plugger etc

Well worth having a listen to Kevin Hillier's two dogs podcast featuring Kennedy and Beasley.

Honourable mention to Mitch Hahn.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

So on to #8. Another tough one. We have had a succession of very good players appear in the #8 going way back to Max Cross in 1956.

For me the three standouts are Bob Spargo, Rick Kennedy and Mitch Hahn. All very fine players. I was gutted when Bob went west as he was really starting to shine and was at his prime.

I give it to Rick for his on field leadership. He didn't leave anyone wondering about his commitment to the team and his desire to win. Mitch was the same. Totally courageous and committed. We have been well served by the #8.

Was Spargo related to the Melbourne radio dj from the time?

[merantau]

Was Spargo related to the Melbourne radio dj from the time?

Can't find any reference re that but someone else may know.

[merantau]

We've had some very good players pull on the #9 jumper starting with Premiership hero Don Ross who won our B&F in 1956. Laurie Sandilands had a 12 year career, was good at either end of the ground, won our goal kicking 4 times and was captain for three years.

Lindsay Gilbee had a 206 game career as a defender who loved to get forward and kick a goal. An elite kick - many would say the best in the competition during his playing days - he had a ton of dash who initiated many attacking moves after taking possession from deep in defence and breaking the lines.

Really hard to separate these two players. Lindsay played in better teams. Laurie played in lean times. Both outstanding players who left their mark and are remembered fondly for the way they went about their football. I'm going for Laurie - just.

[bornadog]

Lally Bamblett was one of my favourites in 1985, but only palyed the one season.

I am going to go for Gilbee with 206 games, one of our longest serving indigenous players.

[merantau]

We have had some marvellous players wear #10 - Gordon Casey, Mick Egan, Mark Hunter, Brett Montgomery, Nathan Eagleton and Easton Wood.

I can't go past our Premiership skipper as the pre-eminent #10. His 2015 was a revelation. His attack on the ball, his marking and spoiling - his run. Freed up we saw what an attacking force he was. Who can forget his mid air goal and then his one-handed pick up and clearing handball in the dying seconds of the game against Sydney at the SCG?

Then in 2016, thrust into the captaincy in a moment of crisis he took up the challenge to do what leaders do - lead. He played inspiring football. and kept the faith when the Club was decimated with injuries. He had to contend with his own serious injury just before the finals and what a finals series he played. It was his goal that got us on the board against Hawthorn. He was brilliant against GWS when his crucial efforts and Fletcher Roberts' clearing kick got us out of the danger zone.

[merantau]

At #11 we have a champion in Jack Macrae. For consistently good football over a long period of time his only rival for output would be Tony McGuinness.
Jack is a prolific ball winner and link man who brings others into the game. And when the pressure was on in the biggest game of his life - he stood up. Go Jacko!

[merantau]

Best #12? I think it's a toss of the coin between Alex Gardiner and Greg Epplestun. Both played a similar number of games in about the same number of years. Greg by a whisker.
James Cook had a big impact but unfortunately could not sustain it.

#13? Gia, Gia, Gia. Great contributor over a long career. Gave his all and played some marvellous football for us.

[merantau]

At #14 we have two outstanding cadidates - John Schultz and Luke Darcy. Luke was a more rounded player in that he could go forward and kick a goal whereas John was more of a pure ruckman - both great players. But with a Brownlow Medal and five B&Fs John gets the nod from me.

[merantau]

There is little debate to be had about our best #15. Scott Wynd had a long and distinguished career. Brownlow medalist, club captain B&F winner, great leader, full of courage - he gave his all for 237 games. Champion.

[bornadog]

There is little debate to be had about our best #15. Scott Wynd had a long and distinguished career. Brownlow medalist, club captain B&F winner, great leader, full of courage - he gave his all for 237 games. Champion.

Agree with all these from 10 to 15 - keep up the great work

At the end, do you want to attempt a best ever team?

[merantau]

Agree with all these from 10 to 15 - keep up the great work

At the end, do you want to attempt a best ever team?

At the end of the exercise we will have a list of up to 35 - 40 players who've made significant impacts and are considered to be the best players to have worn each paticular number.

If we pick the best 22 out of that list we are not going to have the best team because we could only pick one #14 for example and Luke Darcy would miss out. Similar dilemma with Scott West/Doug Hawkins.

We'll work something out.

[bornadog]

At the end of the exercise we will have a list of up to 35 - 40 players who've made significant impacts and are considered to be the best players to have worn each paticular number.

If we pick the best 22 out of that list we are not going to have the best team because we could only pick one #14 for example and Luke Darcy would miss out. Similar dilemma with Scott West/Doug Hawkins.

We'll work something out.

Yeah true.

[EasternWest]

At #14 we have two outstanding cadidates - John Schultz and Luke Darcy. Luke was a more rounded player in that he could go forward and kick a goal whereas John was more of a pure ruckman - both great players. But with a Brownlow Medal and five B&Fs John gets the nod from me.

And John's a great man, so it's a no contest.

[merantau]

Ken Duff from Parkside wore #16 for 67 games between 1961 and 1965. He was 19th man in our 1961 GF team. He played as a forward/ruck rover.

[merantau]

The next #16 of note was David Thorpe. From North Footscray FC he debuted in 1965 wearing #39 but switched to #16 the following year.

He was a fine centreman and a prolific ball winner. He played 151 games and kicked 79 goals before moving to Richmond in 1974 where he played in Premiership. In three years at Richmond he played 27 games and kicked 24 goals.

He won our B&F in 1968 and 1971 and was All Australian in 1972.

[merantau]

Ron Stockman, from West Footscray FC, debuted in '53 wearing the #17. He played 73 games and kicked 1 goal - in the '54 GF!

Usually played off half back but played half forward in the GF. Went to South for 3 years beginning in '58 where he played a further 23 games - but no more goals. Retired at end of '61 season. Born in 1934 so coming up for 87 on August 19.

[merantau]

From '58 to '65 Graham Ion played 107 games in the #17 and kicked 85 goals as an undersized (5'10" 76kg) CHF. He was a member of our #61 GF team and was a very good footballer. He played for Victoria and in Rd 13 1961, he captained the Dogs as a 20 yr old when Ted Whitten was away on interstate duties with the Vics.

[merantau]

In 1973 Adrian Gallagher from Carlton arrived under the "10 Year Rule". He played in 3 Premierships at Carlton, played 54 games for us in the #17 and kicked 38 goals. He went to North in '76 and played 1 game.

[merantau]

From '76 to '79, defender Alby Smedts from Narrewarren played 51 games in the #17 before moving to St Kilda for another 10 games.

[merantau]

From '90 to '96 Barry Stanfield played 98 games in the #17. From Fish Creek he was a more than handy forward who could take a run in the ruck. Went to Adelaide but his '97 season was cruelled by injury. Had a successful coaching career back at Fish Creek.

[merantau]

Nathan Brown wore #17 from '97 to '03. He played 137 games and kicked 206 goals. He went to Richmond for money.

[merantau]

In 2004 Adam Cooney arrived. He played 219 games and kicked 186 goals wearing the #17. An explosive on-baller he won the Brownlow in 2008 - the first No 1 draft pick to do so. His last 3 years with us were hampered by injury. A very dynamic player.

[merantau]

Tom Boyd arrived in 2015 and played 52 games in the #17 kicking 42 goals. He became the focus of a lot of harsh media attention but had the last laugh in the 2016 Finals campaign where he was simply brilliant. He carried a huge load in the Prelim after Roughie went down. Then he saved his best for the GF where he was a tower of strength kicking 3 goals, including the game breaker and taking a heap of contested marks.

Tom will always be loved and admired for what he did under enormous pressure. Hero.

[EasternWest]

Ken Duff from Parkside wore #16 for 67 games between 1961 and 1965. He was 19th man in our 1961 GF team. He played as a forward/ruck rover.


The next #16 of note was David Thorpe. From North Footscray FC he debuted in 1965 wearing #39 but switched to #16 the following year.

He was a fine centreman and a prolific ball winner. He played 151 games and kicked 79 goals before moving to Richmond in 1974 where he played in Premiership. In three years at Richmond he played 27 games and kicked 24 goals.

He won our B&F in 1968 and 1971 and was All Australian in 1972.


Ron Stockman, from West Footscray FC, debuted in '53 wearing the #17. He played 73 games and kicked 1 goal - in the '54 GF!

Usually played off half back but played half forward in the GF. Went to South for 3 years beginning in '58 where he played a further 23 games - but no more goals. Retired at end of '61 season. Born in 1934 so coming up for 87 on August 19.

Wait, are we just bypassing Ryan Griffen?

[EasternWest]

Tom will always be loved and admired for what he did under enormous pressure. Hero.

Can't like this enough.

[Bulldog4life]

The next #16 of note was David Thorpe. From North Footscray FC he debuted in 1965 wearing #39 but switched to #16 the following year.

He was a fine centreman and a prolific ball winner. He played 151 games and kicked 79 goals before moving to Richmond in 1974 where he played in Premiership. In three years at Richmond he played 27 games and kicked 24 goals.

He won our B&F in 1968 and 1971 and was All Australian in 1972.

I was real dirty when he left. Loved watching him play. His baulk was a thing of beauty. Terrific player.

[Bulldog4life]

From '58 to '65 Graham Ion played 107 games in the #17 and kicked 85 goals as an undersized (5'10" 76kg) CHF. He was a member of our #61 GF team and was a very good footballer. He played for Victoria and in Rd 13 1961, he captained the Dogs as a 20 yr old when Ted Whitten was away on interstate duties with the Vics.

Another fine player for us. Problem was a number of good players didn't stick around long enough in those days. Received higher remuneration being captain/coach of a country team.

[bornadog]

Wait, are we just bypassing Ryan Griffen?

Also Terry Wallace and my mate Matty Croft

[EasternWest]

I was real dirty when he left. Loved watching him play. His baulk was a thing of beauty. Terrific player.

I think that's fair enough. I'm not sure why he was overlooked because we can't whitewash history.

Gun player for us and really led us in finals when other big name players didn't.

I was very disappointed when he left too, but we all know how it turned out.

[EasternWest]

Also Terry Wallace and my mate Matty Croft

Oh yeah! Loved Crofty.

[merantau]

Looks like I had a brain fade after repriseing David Thorpe!! Late night or early morning fog! Can't recall. I'll get back to Crofty and Griff. And Plough.

[bornadog]

Looks like I had a brain fade after repriseing David Thorpe!! Late night or early morning fog! Can't recall. I'll get back to Crofty and Griff. And Plough.

No worries Merantau, easily done - we are loving this thread

[merantau]

From Subiaco where he played in the 1973 Premiership Dennis Blair had 3 seasons in the #16 from '76 - '78 and played 41 games as a defender. Solid player. Still loves the Dogs.

[merantau]

Chris Burton played from '80 to '84 and wore #16 for 4 seasons. 67 games in total. A good wingman with plenty of pace he went to Richmond and had 4 years with them. Was their leading possession winner in 1987 playing in the back pocket. Played in Williamstown's 1990 Premiership. Played 117 AFL games in total. Was our runner for a few years.

[merantau]

Terry Wallace played 69 games in the #16 over 4 seasons between '88 and '91. Here's a run down of his football achievements:

3×*!VFL*!premiership player:*!1978,*!1983,*!19862×*!Peter Crimmins Perpetual Memorial Trophy: 1981, 19832×*!Charles Sutton Medal: 1988, 1989All-Australian team*!(player): 1988All-Australian team*!(coach): 1998VFL Team of the Year: 1982, 1983Australian Football Hall of Fame

The fact that he won our B&F in his first two years with us speaks volumes to his commitment and professionalism. I liked him both as a player and a coach. He certainly took over at a low point in our journey and took us to places where we hadn't been for a while.

I like the way he turned us into a feared team. He was a real thinker and motivator as a coach. It ended badly as he failed to read the room but I get the impression he is still respected by a lot of people at the Club.

He certainly put in both as a player and a coach.

He never left any room for doubt re how passionate he was about winning.

https://twitter.com/adamzwar/status/779847519752761344?s=20

[merantau]

Matthew Croft was with us from '91 to '04. He debuted wearing #37 but then took over #16 the next year. He only played a handful of games in his first three years but thereafter became a permanent fixture in the side. He played 186 games and kicked 72 goals 41 behinds.

He was a very versatile player. A very strong and tough defender he played on all the gun forwards and made them earn every kick.

He was good when thrown forward and was an accurate kick for goal. I once saw him charge through a pack at the Geelong Rd end and lose control of the ball. It ended up behind his back. Somehow he managed to pin it to his back with his right hand, retrieve the ball under great pressure and slam it on his boot. Unfortunately he missed narrowly. It would have been goal of the year for mine.

In his last year he only played a few games but he and Simon Garlick were recalled for a farewell game in the last round. Crofty booted a casual 5 goals in a BOG performance.

He served as Club Director for a few years and was with us in 2016. He stepped down from the Board in 2019: a great and much admired Bulldog.

[Bulldog4life]

Matthew Croft was with us from '91 to '04. He debuted wearing #37 but then took over #16 the next year. He only played a handful of games in his first three years but thereafter became a permanent fixture in the side. He played 186 games and kicked 87 goals.

He was a very versatile player. A very strong and tough defender he played on all the gun forwards and made them earn every kick.

He was good when thrown forward and was an accurate kick for goal. I once saw him charge through a pack at the Geelong Rd end and lose control of the ball. It ended up behind his back. Somehow he managed to pin it to his back with his right hand, retrieve the ball under great pressure and slam it on his boot. Unfortunately he missed narrowly. It would have been goal of the year for mine.

Played his last game with Simon Garlick also playing his last. From memory they kicked 5 goals each.

[Bulldog4life]

I think that's fair enough. I'm not sure why he was overlooked because we can't whitewash history.

Gun player for us and really led us in finals when other big name players didn't.

I was very disappointed when he left too, but we all know how it turned out.

Are you talking about Griffan EW? I was talking about David Thorpe. ;)

[bornadog]

Are you talking about Griffan EW? I was talking about David Thorpe. ;)

Nah he was thinking of Suckling :D:D

[merantau]

From '05 to '14 Ryan Griffen played 202 games and kicked 130 goals as a hard at it, explosive midfielder who could run all day and do it all. He was my favourite player and it was tragic that he did not finish his career with us. He was B&F in '10 and '13.

I really think it was a poorly thought through decision to appoint him captain. But as things transpired we won the Premiership two years after he left and Tom Boyd etched his name in the pantheon of Premiership Heroes. Strange how things turn out sometimes isn't it?

[EasternWest]

Nah he was thinking of Suckling :D:D

I never, ever do that. Except here, where it's cruelly smooshed into my face :).

[Twodogs]

Wait, are we just bypassing Ryan Griffen?

I vaguely remember the name.


Chris Burton played from '80 to '84 and wore #16 for 4 seasons. 67 games in total. A good wingman with plenty of pace he went to Richmond and had 4 years with them. Was their leading possession winner in 1987 playing in the back pocket. Played in Williamstown's 1990 Premiership. Played 117 AFL games in total. Was our runner for a few years.

Interesting guy. He occasionally used to wear Richmond socks to training.

[BulldogBelle]

Terry Wallace was great to watch, great courage, skill and a ball magnet.
Crofty did a great job.

[merantau]

Toby McLean debuted in '15 and has now played 91 games and kicked 60 goals in the #16. He seized his opportunity in 2016 when Lin Jong did his shoulder; he performed admirably in our finals campaign.

With increased competition for spots in the First 22 Toby will need to continue to develop his game to cement his place in the team.

[merantau]

Ruckman/defender Dave Bryden played 147 games and kicked 56 goals between '47 and '55. He wore #18.

The following notes are courtesy of Wikipedia.

Bryden was an old school ruckman-cum-back pocket recruited from Wonthaggi, Victoria who, at his prime was considered one of the best ruckmen in the Victorian Football League.[2] Bryden played for the Victorian interstate team in 1951 and was second best on ground in the 1954 VFL Grand Final. He played for the Bulldogs between 1947 and 1955, kicking 56 goals in 147 games.[2] After leaving Footscray he coached and played for Nhill in country Victoria for three years. He coached to finals in 2 of the 3 years. He then returned to Melbourne and played for Kensington in the Sunday league at the age of 31 for 3 seasons. He won the best and fairest in each of the 3 years at that club.

Obviously a very fine footballer.

[merantau]

Ray Baxter debuted against Fitzroy in the #18 in Round 16, 1958 at the Western Oval. I was at the game. Ray was named as 19th man and came on at 3/4 time.

Fitzroy had a good side that year. They finished the season in 3rd position with 12 wins. We finished 2nd last with six. The game began reasonably for us and at quarter time Fitzroy, kicking with a gale, lead 3.4 22 to zero. We had a good second quarter and at half time led 8.6
to 3.4

We had a brilliant 3rd quarter into the breeze and led 11.6 to 5.9 at 3/4 time. We were headed for a win but what a win! In the last quarter we piled on 9 goals to win 20.11.131 to 5.11.41 - a 15 goal win.

Ray Baxter kicked 3 goals in the last quarter. EJ booted 5. It was a huge upset and most enjoyable. Fitzroy lost the Semi-Final to Carlton by 4 pts. Collingwood went on the win the flag in a huge upset over Melbourne who were going for 4 in a row.

Ray Baxter went on to play 80 games mainly at CHF and he kicked 80 goals. A very good player and a great servant of the club post retirement

These notes courtesy of Wikipedia.

Recruited locally, from Kingsville, Baxter was a follower and key position player. He topped Footscray's goal-kicking in the 1959 VFL season, with 35 goals, six of which came in a loss to Essendon at Windy Hill.[1] His efforts were rewarded with selection in that year's Victorian team which played Tasmania.[2] He was the club's leading goal-kicker again in 1960, managing 37 goals, the seventh biggest tally in the league that season.[1] Playing as a centre half-back, Baxter was a member of the Footscray team which won the 1963 Night Premiership.

Ray continued in footy, by being both Captain and Coach of Mordialloc from 1965 to 1967. He was awarded Best & Fairest in both 1965 & 1966.

Ray was successful in his career after football, being employed by Mazda in 1963, and becoming general manager by 1979. In 1987, he brought Lease Plan to Australia as the Managing Director. Ray was appointed Lease Plan Chairman for Australia & New Zealand in 1997, he held this position until his retirement in 2002.

Ray always continued working with the Footscray Football Club (eventually the Western Bulldogs). He was Vice President Of WBFC (Western Bulldogs Football Club) Board from 1996 to 2001. Ray Baxter is currently a Director of the Forever Foundation (est. 1999) and is also Chairman and Trustee of the Western Bulldogs Society (Bequests).

[Nuggety Back Pocket]

Ray Baxter debuted against Fitzroy in the #18 in Round 16, 1958 at the Western Oval. I was at the game. Ray was named as 19th man and came on at 3/4 time.

Fitzroy had a good side that year. They finished the season in 3rd position with 12 wins. We finished 2nd last with six. The game began reasonably for us and at quarter time Fitzroy, kicking with a gale, lead 3.4 22 to zero. We had a good second quarter and at half time led 8.6
to 3.4

We had a brilliant 3rd quarter into the breeze and led 11.6 to 5.9 at 3/4 time. We were headed for a win but what a win! In the last quarter we piled on 9 goals to win 20.11.131 to 5.11.41 - a 15 goal win.

Ray Baxter kicked 3 goals in the last quarter. EJ booted 5. It was a huge upset and most enjoyable. Fitzroy lost the Semi-Final to Carlton by 4 pts. Collingwood went on the win the flag in a huge upset over Melbourne who were going for 4 in a row.

Ray Baxter went on to play 80 games mainly at CHF and he kicked 80 goals. A very good player and a great servant of the club post retirement

These notes courtesy of Wikipedia.

Recruited locally, from Kingsville, Baxter was a follower and key position player. He topped Footscray's goal-kicking in the 1959 VFL season, with 35 goals, six of which came in a loss to Essendon at Windy Hill.[1] His efforts were rewarded with selection in that year's Victorian team which played Tasmania.[2] He was the club's leading goal-kicker again in 1960, managing 37 goals, the seventh biggest tally in the league that season.[1] Playing as a centre half-back, Baxter was a member of the Footscray team which won the 1963 Night Premiership.

Ray continued in footy, by being both Captain and Coach of Mordialloc from 1965 to 1967. He was awarded Best & Fairest in both 1965 & 1966.

Ray was successful in his career after football, being employed by Mazda in 1963, and becoming general manager by 1979. In 1987, he brought Lease Plan to Australia as the Managing Director. Ray was appointed Lease Plan Chairman for Australia & New Zealand in 1997, he held this position until his retirement in 2002.

Ray always continued working with the Footscray Football Club (eventually the Western Bulldogs). He was Vice President Of WBFC (Western Bulldogs Football Club) Board from 1996 to 2001. Ray Baxter is currently a Director of the Forever Foundation (est. 1999) and is also Chairman and Trustee of the Western Bulldogs Society (Bequests).

Ray Baxter is a good friend and a great servant of our Club. His son Darren Baxter was also a fine servant of our Club. Ray played in an era when the Bulldogs team was dominated by players from its then strong Footscray District Football League.
This included the likes of Ted Whitten Bob Spargo Graeme and Barry Ion, Bob Ware, Charlie Evans, John Jillard, Merv Hobbs and Keith Beamish, Cameron McDonald, who all went on to play in our 1961 Grand Final team.
Ray Baxter still plays golf each week with John Schultz and they remain firm friends.

[EasternWest]

Ray Baxter is a good friend and a great servant of our Club. His son Darren Baxter was also a fine servant of our Club. Ray played in an era when the Bulldogs team was dominated by players from its then strong Footscray District Football League.
This included the likes of Ted Whitten Bob Spargo Graeme and Barry Ion, Bob Ware, Charlie Evans, John Jillard, Merv Hobbs and Keith Beamish, Cameron McDonald, who all went on to play in our 1961 Grand Final team.
Ray Baxter still plays golf each week with John Schultz and they remain firm friends.

If this thread isn't the best thread ever produced on WOOF, it's got to be in the top ten.

[merantau]

Kevin Delmenico joined us from Castlemaine in 1966 and played for five seasons in the #18. A descendent of the Swiss-Italians who journeyed out to Central Victoria during the 1850s gold rushes, Delmenico's Guildford Family Hotel bears witness to their connection to the area.

Just opposite the hotel there is a bust of the great Ron Barassi, another of Swiss-Italian heritage, at the entrance to the Guildford Oval.

Kevin was a solid defender who gave good service to the club and is stilla passionate Bulldogs supporter.

Notes from Wikipedia follow:


Delmenico played his early football with Castlemaine[1] before spending five seasons beside club great Ted Whitten at Footscray. A defender, he kicked the only goal of his career against Geelong in 1966, his debut season.

He joined Canberra club Manuka in 1973 and played in three successive premierships, the last two as captain-coach.[2] From 1976 to 1980, Delmenico coached Queanbeyan.[3] During this time he coached the ACT at the 1979 Perth State of Origin Carnival. In 2011 he was inducted into the AFL Canberra Hall of Fame.[4]

[merantau]

If you haven't yet been to Guildford it's worth a visit to see the Big Tree. It's at the end of the street that runs off the General Store. It's an Aboriginal boundary trèe. If you look closely you'll see the evidence. There is an information board explaining the tree recent history (circa 1860s)

[merantau]

Ian "Sockeye" Salmon was a big, burly left-footer who arrived from Leongather in 1971 in the #9. He switched to #18 the following season. All up he played 113 games in 6 seasons and kicked 36 goals. Primarily a forward he could take a run in the ruck. He was a big man in a team full of big men at the time. He was totally reliable and never took a backward step.

[merantau]

Round 1, 1982. Me and a mate journeyed to Windy Hill to witness Simon Beasley's debut wearing the #18. We were filled with expectation. Simon was a big name recruit who had starred in State games against the Vics taking strong marks and kicking long goals from outside 50 with arrow-straight drop punts.

It could not have been a more lacklustre debut. Simon had 2 kicks for 2 behinds and we lost by 109 points. It was a bleak day. But as they say: "It's always darkest before the dawn." Simon booted 82 goals in his first year and went on to boot 575 goals in a 154 game, 8 year career - the most majors ever kicked by a Bulldog.

In round 16 against Geelong at the Western Oval he booted 12 goals 4 behinds and we won handsomely. It was my privilege to see this bravura performance by the Pieman. We only won three games in 1982 and were wooden spooners but Simon shone for us.

He won our goal kicking from '82 to '88 and was Coleman Medalist in 1985 with 93 goals. He went on to kick 105 goals that year reaching 100 by booting 7 in memorable finals win against North at the "G". I was there.

Simon was a great player. He didn't look like a big heavy bloke but he topped the scales at 102kgs. He was immensely courageous standing under a high ball. He was quick on the lead and could take a pack mark with the best of them. He was an excellent kick for goal. Bulldog Team of the Century. A Bulldog Immortal.

https://youtu.be/-21Q4NI1nyo

This is a beautiful memory. I was there.
https://youtu.be/ZNn6MqJ1mno

Simon had guts.
https://youtu.be/r4GFMT2Xe9Q

100th goal in season 1985.
https://youtu.be/uKhancHOM6Q

[EasternWest]

Round 1, 1982. Me and a mate journeyed to Windy Hill to witness Simon Beasley's debut wearing the #18. We were filled with expectation. Simon was a big name recruit who had starred in State games against the Vics taking strong marks and kicking long goals from outside 50 with arrow-straight drop punts.

It could not have been a more lacklustre debut. Simon had 2 kicks for 2 behinds and we lost by 109 points. It was a bleak day. But as they say: "It's always darkest before the dawn." Simon booted 82 goals in his first year and went on to boot 575 goals in a 154 game, 8 year career - the most majors ever kicked by a Bulldog.
We only won three games in 1982 and were wooden spooners but Simon shone for us.

In round 16 against Geelong at the Western Oval he booted 12 goals 4 behinds and we won handsomely. He won our goal kicking from '82 to '88 and was Coleman Medalist in 1985 with 93 goals. He went on to kick 105 goals that year reaching 100 by booting 7 in memorable finals win against North at the "G". I was there.

Simon was a great player. He didn't look like a big heavy bloke but he topped the scales at 102kgs. He was immensely courageous standing under a high ball. He was quick on the lead and could take a pack mark with the best of them. He was an excellent kick for goal. Bulldog Team of the Century. A Bulldog Immortal.

https://youtu.be/-21Q4NI1nyo

This is a beautiful memory. I was there.
https://youtu.be/ZNn6MqJ1mno

Simon had guts.
https://youtu.be/r4GFMT2Xe9Q

100th goal in season 1985.
https://youtu.be/uKhancHOM6Q

Absolutely love this one.

[merantau]

Simon's career was cut short in 1989 by back and knee injuries. In 1988 he booted 82 goals, so his forced retirement was a tragedy: he still had a couple of years of good football in him.

[bornadog]

Simon's career was cut short by back and knee injuries. A tragedy because he still had a couple of years of good football in him.

For me the best number 18, and in my top 5 players from 1980s onwards

[HOSE B ROMERO]

We've had some very good players pull on the #9 jumper starting with Premiership hero Don Ross who won our B&F in 1956. Laurie Sandilands had a 12 year career, was good at either end of the ground, won our goal kicking 4 times and was captain for three years.

Lindsay Gilbee had a 206 game career as a defender who loved to get forward and kick a goal. An elite kick - many would say the best in the competition during his playing days - he had a ton of dash who initiated many attacking moves after taking possession from deep in defence and breaking the lines.

Really hard to separate these two players. Lindsay played in better teams. Laurie played in lean times. Both outstanding players who left their mark and are remembered fondly for the way they went about their football. I'm going for Laurie - just.

Would have liked to have seen Laurie play. 3kz's 'the captain and the major' certainly loved his tough style.
Gilb's for me. Probably our best field kick, could kill the ball in the air and a nice goal kicker.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

We have had some marvellous players wear #10 - Gordon Casey, Mick Egan, Mark Hunter, Brett Montgomery, Nathan Eagleton and Easton Wood.

I can't go past our Premiership skipper as the pre-eminent #10. His 2015 was a revelation. His attack on the ball, his marking and spoiling - his run. Freed up we saw what an attacking force he was. Who can forget his mid air goal and then his one-handed pick up and clearing handball in the dying seconds of the game against Sydney at the SCG?

Then in 2016, thrust into the captaincy in a moment of crisis he took up the challenge to do what leaders do - lead. He played inspiring football. and kept the faith when the Club was decimated with injuries. He had to contend with his own serious injury just before the finals and what a finals series he played. It was his goal that got us on the board against Hawthorn. He was brilliant against GWS when his crucial efforts and Fletcher Roberts' clearing kick got us out of the danger zone.

Yep ditto everything you said about Woody. But for his initial frustration with leg injuries, his career could have taken off earlier. Inspirational.
Special mention for Eagle. After an initial slow start he cemented his spot. Who could forget the leg speed and those raking left foot goals. Also i remember on a couple of occasions where he was running the same way as the ball, get cleaned up and continued on.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

I was real dirty when he left. Loved watching him play. His baulk was a thing of beauty. Terrific player.

I read an interview not long ago where Thorpe was confronted at Richmond being told that he wasn't a team player but an individual playing in a team. In retrospect he said he agreed and that's why he didn't play as many games as he should have.

[HOSE B ROMERO]

16 & 17 to Griffen & Cooney for mine.

[merantau]

Leon Cameron arrived from Sth Warrnambool in 1990 and was with us for 10 seasons 172 games and 68 goals. He wore #18.

He was selected at number 7 in the draft he was a very good player from the outset. His kicking on both sides of his body was elite. If you didn't know he was a natural right footer it was really hard to work it out from just watching him play. In this regard he only had one rival - Doug Hawkins.

Leon had pace, skill, courage and a big tank - he could run all day and then some. People who bang on about the John Worsfolds and Jonathan Brown's etc being so courageous amuse me. It's a lot easier to be courageous when you're built like a Sherman tank. It's players like Leon Cameron, Caleb Daniel, George Bisset, Ken Hunter, Robbie Flower Dean Laidley etc who are truly, deeply courageous because they are small/lightweight/wiry.

Leon was good in the air and on the ground. He was adaptable too. I remember a game at Whitten Oval when was switched on to a rampant Wayne Carey in the 3rd quarter.

Leon won our B&F in 1993 and was Age Footballer of the Year in 1995.

I can't recall the circumstances in which he went to Richmond. I only know I was not happy about it.

This is what I mean about his kicking.

https://youtu.be/NPHd_xAY-Js

[HOSE B ROMERO]

Simon's career was cut short in 1989 by back and knee injuries. In 1988 he booted 82 goals, so his forced retirement was a tragedy: he still had a couple of years of good football in him.

Yep Beazer for me. A wonderful career and a colourful stockbroking career awaited him.

Special mention to Leon Cameron. Sensational on either side of the body. On the wing or ruck roving, he was very consistent.

[Twodogs]

I can't recall the circumstances in which he went to Richmond. I only know I was not happy about it.

We swapped him to Richmond, for picks 37 (Mitch Hahn) and 66 (Ryan Hargrave) we did alright out of it. Leon played 84 games at Richmond while Mitch (181) and Shaggy (203) played 384 between them.

We also traded Michael Martin to Brisbane for Trent Bartlett and their pick 32 who we took Daniel Giansiracusa with. It was a good trade/draft period for us.

[merantau]

Between 2000 and 2003 Trent Bartlett played 42 games in the #18 and kicked 34 goals. He came to us from Brisbane where he played 39 games as a defender. We played him as a forward.

I have a lot of respect for him as I saw him absolutely poleaxed when playing for Brisbane. He was a mess and had to be stretchered off. It takes courage to come back from a massive hit like that.

He played as a forward for us and was more than handy. He booted 5 against Carlton at Princes Park one afternoon and was a big contributor to a win against the odds.

Here's a clip of his first goal for us.

https://youtu.be/HqVcbhmOM-I

[Twodogs]

Between 2000 and 2003 Trent Bartlett played 42 games in the #18 and kicked 34 goals. He came to us from Brisbane where he played 39 games as a defender. We played him as a forward.

I have a lot of respect for him as I saw him absolutely poleaxed when playing for Brisbane. He was a mess and had to be stretchered off. It takes courage to come back from a massive hit like that.

He played as a forward for us and was more than handy. He booted 5 against Carlton at Princes Park one afternoon and was a big contributor to a win against the odds.

Here's a clip of his first goal for us.

https://youtu.be/HqVcbhmOM-I

One of the best wins I ever saw was at Princes Park in 2000. A young bloke called Robert Murphy wearing #22 slotted a goal to make the difference less than a goal and then Trent Bartlett kicked the winner from one of the dodgiest free kicks I've ever seen. I still have a photo of Trent and Rohan Smith walking up the race with Carlton supporters leaning over the fence abusing them. Rohan is showing them the Bulldog on the front of his jumper and Trent has his arms raised in jubilation.

It's one of my favourite photos of all time.

[merantau]

One of the best wins I ever saw was at Princes Park in 2000. A young bloke called Robert Murphy wearing #22 slotted a goal to make the difference less than a goal and then Trent Bartlett kicked the winner from one of the dodgiest free kicks I've ever seen. I still have a photo of Trent and Rohan Smith walking up the race with Carlton supporters leaning over the fence abusing them. Rohan is showing them the Bulldog on the front of his jumper and Trent has his arms raised in jubilation.

It's one of my favourite photos of all time.

You can't put a price on memories like that. Thanks for sharing.

[Jeanette54]

Can't find any reference re that but someone else may know.

Barry Ion, the brother of Graham Ion was working as a DJ whilst playing for the 'dogs.

[merantau]

Fletcher Roberts wore #18 for seven years and 51 games. In our flag year he played 18 games and was a very dependable defender for us. Copped a very heavy knock to the face in the Prelim but came back on and was involved in some crucial plays. Never forget it was his clearing kick out af a desperate defensive situation that, under extreme pressure , reached the boundary line. It was the perfect kick for the occasion.
Fletcher will always be remembered fondly by me and all supporters as a Bulldog Premiership Hero.

[Bulldog4life]

Round 1, 1982. Me and a mate journeyed to Windy Hill to witness Simon Beasley's debut wearing the #18. We were filled with expectation. Simon was a big name recruit who had starred in State games against the Vics taking strong marks and kicking long goals from outside 50 with arrow-straight drop punts.

It could not have been a more lacklustre debut. Simon had 2 kicks for 2 behinds and we lost by 109 points. It was a bleak day. But as they say: "It's always darkest before the dawn." Simon booted 82 goals in his first year and went on to boot 575 goals in a 154 game, 8 year career - the most majors ever kicked by a Bulldog.

In round 16 against Geelong at the Western Oval he booted 12 goals 4 behinds and we won handsomely. It was my privilege to see this bravura performance by the Pieman. We only won three games in 1982 and were wooden spooners but Simon shone for us.

He won our goal kicking from '82 to '88 and was Coleman Medalist in 1985 with 93 goals. He went on to kick 105 goals that year reaching 100 by booting 7 in memorable finals win against North at the "G". I was there.

Simon was a great player. He didn't look like a big heavy bloke but he topped the scales at 102kgs. He was immensely courageous standing under a high ball. He was quick on the lead and could take a pack mark with the best of them. He was an excellent kick for goal. Bulldog Team of the Century. A Bulldog Immortal.

https://youtu.be/-21Q4NI1nyo

This is a beautiful memory. I was there.
https://youtu.be/ZNn6MqJ1mno

Simon had guts.
https://youtu.be/r4GFMT2Xe9Q

100th goal in season 1985.
https://youtu.be/uKhancHOM6Q

Yep Simon was a superstar. In my 5 top Bulldog players that I have seen. His leading and goal kicking accuracy were superb.

[Bulldog4life]

Ray Baxter is a good friend and a great servant of our Club. His son Darren Baxter was also a fine servant of our Club. Ray played in an era when the Bulldogs team was dominated by players from its then strong Footscray District Football League.
This included the likes of Ted Whitten Bob Spargo Graeme and Barry Ion, Bob Ware, Charlie Evans, John Jillard, Merv Hobbs and Keith Beamish, Cameron McDonald, who all went on to play in our 1961 Grand Final team.
Ray Baxter still plays golf each week with John Schultz and they remain firm friends.

Any idea how Ray got the nickname Gus NBP?

[Bulldog4life]

Barry Ion, the brother of Graham Ion was working as a DJ whilst playing for the 'dogs.

Pretty sure he was on 3KZ. Handy half back flanker.

[Mofra]

Leon Cameron arrived from Sth Warrnambool in 1990 and was with us for 10 seasons 172 games and 68 goals. He wore #18.

He was selected at number 7 in the draft he was a very good player from the outset. His kicking on both sides of his body was elite. If you didn't know he was a natural right footer it was really hard to work it out from just watching him play. In this regard he only had one rival - Doug Hawkins.

Leon had pace, skill, courage and a big tank - he could run all day and then some. People who bang on about the John Worsfolds and Jonathan Brown's etc being so courageous amuse me. It's a lot easier to be courageous when you're built like a Sherman tank. It's players like Leon Cameron, Caleb Daniel, George Bisset, Ken Hunter, Robbie Flower Dean Laidley etc who are truly, deeply courageous because they are small/lightweight/wiry.

Leon was good in the air and on the ground. He was adaptable too. I remember a game at Whitten Oval when was switched on to a rampant Wayne Carey in the 3rd quarter.

Leon won our B&F in 1993 and was Age Footballer of the Year in 1995.

I can't recall the circumstances in which he went to Richmond. I only know I was not happy about it.

This is what I mean about his kicking.

https://youtu.be/NPHd_xAY-Js
Hard to think of any better kicks under pressure - TBH I rate Caleb higher than anyone else in this regard (especially givent he time under pressure in the modern game) but Leon was something else.

Didn't mind a drink in his last season with us as I understand it...

[Doc26]

Ray Baxter is a good friend and a great servant of our Club. His son Darren Baxter was also a fine servant of our Club. Ray played in an era when the Bulldogs team was dominated by players from its then strong Footscray District Football League.
This included the likes of Ted Whitten Bob Spargo Graeme and Barry Ion, Bob Ware, Charlie Evans, John Jillard, Merv Hobbs and Keith Beamish, Cameron McDonald, who all went on to play in our 1961 Grand Final team.
Ray Baxter still plays golf each week with John Schultz and they remain firm friends.


If this thread isn't the best thread ever produced on WOOF, it's got to be in the top ten.


Any idea how Ray got the nickname Gus NBP?

I'm loving this thread from Merantau, and waiting in anticipation for it to reach the #26, and to read who NBP sees as the best to have worn it. I'm going early with Danny Del Re ;)

[bornadog]

I'm loving this thread from Merantau, and waiting in anticipation for it to reach the #26, and to read who NBP sees as the best to have worn it. I'm going early with Danny Del Re ;)

Some pretty good number 26s :D

[Bulldog4life]

Some pretty good number 26s :D

At last one won the club's B & F.

[merantau]

Gary Merrington, ex Tottenham Tech, was a busy footballer. He played for the Braybrook Football Club on Saturdays and turned out for Sunshine YCW on Sundays.

He began his career in 1966 wearing the #19. Initially he played as a forward but later switched to full back where he probably played his best football. He also played on the wing.

10 seasons for 174 games and 46 goals - a career to be proud of. Served the Club as a recruiter and also as Football Manager in the 90s. A great Clubman and Western Suburbs person.

[merantau]

Zeno Tzatzaris had a 7 year career between '84 and '90. Recruited from Parkside, he played 34 games. He began and finished in #48 and wore #19 in the seasons in between.

He was solid defender who had a bit of dash. I remember his first kick in a game at Waverly - a beautiful 50m pass on to the chest of a leading Simon Beasley. His career was cruelled by knee injuries. A good player who always put in.

[Mofra]

Zeno Tzatzaris had a 7 year career between '84 and '90. Recruited from Parkside, he played 34 games. He began and finished in #48 and wore #19 in the seasons in between.

He was solid defender who had a bit of dash. I remember his first kick - a beautiful 50m pass on to the chest of a leading Simon Beasley. His career was cruelled by knee injuries. A good player who always put in.
Is he the only ever Parkside junior to make it to the big time?
He once said in an interview he ate a concoction of yoghurt and garlic before each game. It was... unique

[merantau]

From '93 to '95 rover Luke Beveridge wore #19. Recruited from Melbourne he played 31 games and kicked 29 goals before leaving for St Kilda. His 3 Club career over 10 seasons yeilded 118 games and 107 goals. He was a journeyman footballer who always gave his best.

His real fortè has been as a coach and a leader of men. I think his record has been outstanding. In 2015, his first year, he took us from nowhere to the top of a high pass from where we could see the Promised Land.

And in 2016, like Moses leading the captive Israelites out of bondage, he took us, despite challenging obstacles, into our enemies territory, vanquished them and led us to the Promised Land where we grasped the Holy Grail.

The following is courtesy of Wikipedia:
*******************

Playing career.

Small in stature, he mainly played as a rover and a forward. He is the grandson of*!Collingwood*!premiership player*!Jack Beveridge.

Beveridge won the*!Melbourne*!first year player award in 1989 and played his most games with the club in 1991.

He was traded to*!Footscray*!for pick 122 in the*!1992 AFL Draft. He was seen as a depth player for the club's playing list. He managed 31 games in three seasons.

At the end of 1995 Beveridge was traded to*!St Kilda*!for pick 52 in the*!1995 AFL Draft. His father was a recruitment officer for the club. Beveridge played 45 games for the Saints in four seasons. Beveridge played in St Kilda's*!1996 pre-season cup*!winning side. He played in 7 of 22 matches in the 1997 home and away rounds. St Kilda qualified in first position for the 1997 finals series.[2]*!He retired at the end on the 1999 season.

In 2002 Beveridge was elected in the*!AFL Greek Team of the Century[3]*!for players having full or partial Greek heritage.[4]*!His maternal grandfather originates from the island of*!Samos.[5]

CoachingEdit

He began his coaching career in the*!Victorian Amateur Football Association*!competition where he coached St Bedes/Mentone Tigers to the C, B and A Grade premierships in consecutive seasons.

Beveridge had two years as a player development manager at*!Collingwood*!from 2009 to 2010, where he had an input to the club's*!2010 premiership.[6]

After having a year off, Beveridge joined*!Hawthorn*!in 2012 as an assistant coach specialising in working with the club's defence. Beveridge left Hawthorn after the 2014 season and was originally going to become director of coaching at*!St Kilda,[7]*!however, on 14 November 2014, it was instead announced that he would become the head coach of the*!Western Bulldogs, succeeding*!Brendan McCartney.[1]

Despite being tipped by many for the*!wooden spoon*!following the loss of several key decision makers including previous coach*!Brendan McCartney, captain*!Ryan Griffen, CEO*!Simon Garlick, former*!Brownlow Medallist*!Adam Cooney*!and over 700 games of experience at the end of*!2014, as well as losing reigning*!best and fairest*!Tom Liberatore*!to a knee injury during the*!pre-season*!that would ultimately sideline him for the entire 2015 season, Beveridge led an impressive resurgence by the Western Bulldogs, which finished in sixth place on the ladder, and hence qualified for their first finals series since 2010, before losing to the*!Adelaide Crows*!in the elimination final at the*!Melbourne Cricket Ground. For his efforts, Beveridge was named the AFL Coaches Association coach of the year.[8]

The following year, Beveridge led his team, the Western Bulldogs, to a victory in their first*!Grand Final*!since*!1954*!despite them suffering long-term injuries throughout the season, notably captain*!Robert Murphy. The Bulldogs had finished 7th in the minor premiership. They played in 3 consecutive elimination finals, two of them interstate. On the path to the grand final, they beat West Coast Eagles at Domain Stadium, Hawthorn at the MCG and Greater Western Sydney at Spotless Stadium. In an emotional display which, according to*!The Age, "will undoubtedly go down as one of the great moments in Australian sporting history",[9]*!Beveridge handed his premiership medal to Murphy, saying, "This is yours, mate. You deserve it more than anyone". Murphy, though thankful, returned the medal the following day. It has since been placed in the Western Bulldogs museum. Later that month, Beveridge won the Spirit of Sport award at the*!Sport Australia Hall of Fame Awards*!for his gesture to Murphy.[9]*!He was also named the AFL Coaches Association coach of the year for the second year running.[10]

[Mofra]

From '93 to '95 rover Luke Beveridge, from Melbourne, played 31 games and kicked 29 goals before leaving for St Kilda. His 3 Club career over 10 seasons yeilded 117 games and 87 goals.
And all on one year contracts!

[EasternWest]

Fletcher Roberts wore #18 for seven years and 51 games. In our flag year he played 18 games and was a very dependable defender for us. Copped a very heavy knock to the face in the Prelim but came back on and was involved in some crucial plays. Never forget it was his clearing kick out af a desperate defensive situation that, under extreme pressure , reached the boundary line. It was the perfect kick for the occasion.
Fletcher will always be remembered fondly by me and all supporters as a Bulldog Premiership Hero.

Never has the term "answered the call" been more appropriate.

A great guy - deserved the memories that good fortune brought to him.

[merantau]

In 2010 Liam Jones debuted in the #19. He was with us for four years, played 66 games and booted 68 goals.

He found his groove when Carlton threw him down back and he's played some good footy for them. There's were probably a few conversations at Whitten Oval over the years that began with: "Why the hell didn't we try Liam down back?"

[merantau]

John Bradley from Wagga debuted in the #20 and played 41 games between '63 and '67. He played as at half forward and was a booming left foot kick. Is still a passionate Dogs supporter.

[merantau]

Between 1977 and 1985 Jim Edmond played 154 games in the #20 and kicked 226 goals. Born in Glasgow his nickname was "Jock".

Originally from Bairnsdale Football Club, Edmond made his senior debut for Footscray Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL) in 1977. Winning the club goalkicking award in 1981 with 25 goals, Edmond was Footscray captain from 1983 to 1985.[1] After playing in three finals matches for Footscray in 1985, Edmond left the club over a contractual dispute.

In Round 5, 1983 at the "G" in his 100th game Jim booted 7 against Richmond. We slammed on 10.3 to 3 points in the first quarter and Jim kicked five of them. Richmond fought back but we ended up winning by two points. I was there. It was an amazing game.

Jim was a tough competitor, very strong in the contest with a good pair of hands. I think a lot of supporters were dismayed when he went to Sydney.

[merantau]

Our next significant #20 was Glen Coleman. A supporter favourite his career went like this;

1980–1984 Fitzroy 64 games 7 goals
1986–1989 Sydney 61 games 57 goals.
1990–1993 Footscray 69 games 51 goals
Total194 games 115 goals

I believe he's the only player to play more than 50 games with 3 clubs.
He hald down CHF with us and certainly played his part in some good wins. Good strong marking, long kicking forward.

https://youtu.be/GfLhnapptYc

[merantau]

From '01 to '05 Patrick Bowden played 50 games in the #20 and kicked 55 goals.

[merantau]

From '01 to '05 Patrick Bowden played 50 games in the #20 and kicked 55 goals. We traded him to Richmond and saw Brett Montgomery arrive in his place. Patrick was a very skilled player.

[merantau]

Josh Hill, born in Broome, played 66 games and kicked 75 goals. He arrived in 2007 and left in 2012 for West Coast. He wore #20 for 5 seasons.
He was a handy player who, at times, could do freakish things.

[merantau]

Josh Dunkley wore #20 in his first 2 seasons - '16 and '17.
His last 3 years have been in #5.
I hope he plays out his career with us as he is an excellent player and I would not like to see him run out in another teams colours.

[merantau]

From '69 to '79 Stephen Power wore #21. He played 171 games off half back as a close checking, determined defender who always turned up ready to play. A very good footballer who also played on the wing. Runner-up to Gary Dempsey in the '74 B&F.

[Jeanette54]

From '69 to '79 Stephen Power wore #21. He played 171 games off half back as a close checking, determined defender who always turned up ready to play. A very good footballer who also played on the wing. Runner-up to Gary Dempsey in the '74 B&F.

If my memory serves correctly, Stephen Power maintained his "amateur status" during his time as a Bulldog, playing without payment.

[Grantysghost]

Our next significant #20 was Glen Coleman. A supporter favourite his career went like this;

1980–1984 Fitzroy 64 games 7 goals
1986–1989 Sydney 61 games 57 goals.
1990–1993 Footscray 69 games 51 goals
Total194 games 115 goals

I believe he's the only player to play more than 50 games with 3 clubs.
He hald down CHF with us and certainly played his part in some good wins. Good strong marking, long kicking forward.

https://youtu.be/GfLhnapptYc

And he took out the behind post at the Western Oval!

[EasternWest]

From '69 to '79 Stephen Power wore #21. He played 171 games off half back as a close checking, determined defender who always turned up ready to play. A very good footballer who also played on the wing. Runner-up to Gary Dempsey in the '74 B&F.

Nearly there and we can talk about the best of all.

Not Ben Harrison.

[bornadog]

In Round 5, 1983 at the "G" in his 100th game Jim booted 7 against Richmond. We slammed on 10.3 to 3 points in the first quarter and Jim kicked five of them. Richmond fought back but we ended up winning by two points. I was there. It was an amazing game.

We have spoken about this game in other threads - it was an incredible day. ANZAC day clash with a big crowd, one of the best games I have ever been to.

I really enjoyed watching Jimmy Edmond and was pissed off he left the club and went to Sydney and then ended up at the Brisbane Bears.

[Grantysghost]

Nearly there and we can talk about the best of all.

Not Ben Harrison.

We need to reign in our Jamarra expectations :cool:

[Bulldog4life]

If my memory serves correctly, Stephen Power maintained his "amateur status" during his time as a Bulldog, playing without payment.

Didn't know about Power but John Schultz played as an amateur his whole career.

[merantau]

And he took out the behind post at the Western Oval!

I don't remember that. Any further info?

[merantau]

Tony Buhagiar only played one season with us - 1985 - but what a season it was. We should have won the flag that year. Budgie wore #21 and kicked 36 goals 25 behinds so he was really good value in his 25 games.

[merantau]

Another # 21, Mathew Dent arrived in '97 from Fitzroy and stayed for four seasons and 61 games. A hard-nosed half back he made his opponents earn eveey kick. Popular player with those in the outer ... and the stands.

[merantau]

In 2007 Jason Akermanis arrived. He wore the #21 for four seasons, played 77 games and kicked 114 goals.

He certainly played some great football with us but it ended in turmoil - again - which was a great pity.

[merantau]

In 2011 Tom Liberatore arrived and took on the #21. He has now played 148 games and kicked 50 goals. He missed the entire 2015 season. He came back brilliantly in 2016 and was a key player the Finals. He overcame a serious late season injury just to get to the start line - the apple didn't fall far from the tree! Tough? Is the Pope a Catholic!

Tom is one of my favourite players. What he did to Heath Shaw in the Prelim was priceless. I imagine Tom is hugely respected by his team mates.

[merantau]

In 2011 Tom Liberatore arrived and took on the #21. He has now played 148 games and kicked 50 goals. He missed the entire 2015 season. He came back brilliantly in 2016 and was a key player the Finals. He overcame a serious late season injury just to get to the start line - the apple didn't fall far from the tree! Tough? Is the Pope a Catholic!

Tom is one of my favourite players. What he did to Heath Shaw in the Prelim was priceless. I imagine Tom is hugely respected by his team mates. B&F winner in 2014.

https://youtu.be/7R4YjVylTxM

[bornadog]

I don't remember that. Any further info?

Ran into the behind post down at the Barkley st end and it snapped in two.

[Grantysghost]

I don't remember that. Any further info?

I tried to find the footage but the archives are incomplete.

[Bulldog4life]

Another # 21, Mathew Dent arrived in '97 from Fitzroy and stayed for four seasons and 61 games. A hard-nosed half back he made his opponents earn eveey kick. Popular player with those in the outer ... and the stands.

If I remember correctly his nickname was The psycho chicken.

[Mofra]

Ran into the behind post down at the Barkley st end and it snapped in two.
Unlike Leigh Matthews (whose post snapped halfway indicating some sort of structure weakness), Galaxy snapped it clean from the ground.
I do remember laughing at the poor ground staff trying to bang the little league point post into the same spot.
The post fell into the crowd too, lucky nobody got hurt.

[merantau]

Wish I'd seen that. Does anyone remember the first game at Western Oval after the 50mt line was introduced? The groundsman marked out a 50m line alright. But it went straight across the ground. The groundsman was inspired by Sheedy and the windsock maybe!

[bornadog]

Wish I'd seen that. Does anyone remember the first game at Western Oval after the 50mt line was introduced? The groundsman marked out a 50m line alright. But it went straight across the ground. The groundsman was inspired by Sheedy and the windsock maybe!

Yes, I was there. Was very strange having a line straight across on an oval shaped playing field.

[merantau]

Wally Donald debuted in 1946 wearing #22. By the time he retired in '58 he had played 205 games and kicked 1 goal. I saw him play and he was an excellent player. Ex-Braybrook.

I am indebted to Chris Colonies on Wikipedia who wrote this comprehensive portrait of Wally's career.

"Although Donald played only one senior game in the 1946 season from 1947 to 1957 he was a fixture of the Footscray team and missed only eight of 206 games. Recruited by Footscray as a versatile player, he was originally seen as part of the team's midfield; he was moved to defence as his defensive abilities became apparent, and by 1948 he was established on the half-back flank. Donald played his first final in 1948, named on the half-back flank in the first semi-final against Collingwood.

He played full back at the start of the 1949 season, despite his height—5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)—conceding reach and strength to his opponents. Donald moved to the back pocket in 1951, his best-known position throughout his career. This was due to the recruitment of full-back Herb Henderson, who—at 188 centimetres (6 ft 2 in)—was more typical in size for a fullback. The position change would have been sooner, since Henderson's first season at Footscray was 1950. Since he only played one game, the position changes were not noticeable; Donald's output was undiminished, as he and Henderson quickly established a bond on the last defensive line. The improvement was quick; the Bulldogs conceded 1,608 points in 1950 (an average of 89.3 points per game) and 1,105 points in 1951 (an average of 64.7 per game). Thanks to the defensive partnership, Footscray again made the finals. They fell short against Essendon, however, losing by eight points in the first semifinal. Donald was voted Footscray's most valuable player.

He kicked the only goal of his career in 1952, in round eight against St Kilda at Yallourn Oval during the National Day Round. After Footscray kicked only two goals by three-quarter time in poor conditions, Donald was sent forward in the last quarter and kicked a left-footed goal. Although Footscray outscored St Kilda in the second half, they lost the game by 15 points.[1][2][3][4] The goal made Donald the only player with two streaks of 100 games without a goal; the Yallourn game was his 102nd. 1952 was a good season for Donald, who was runner-up for the club's best and fairest award.

Donald's rapport with Henderson continued to develop during the early 1950s, as they (with defensive staples Dave Bryden and Jim Gallagher) conceding only 959 points in the 1953 season. Statistically, it was the greatest defence since the introduction of 12-team competition in 1925 and the greatest defence of all time since 1920. Footscray again made the finals in 1953, and was victorious (against Essendon, by eight points) for the first time in club history. Donald was again named one of Footscray's best players. It was John Coleman's last-ever final, since he sustained a career-ending knee injury midway during the following season. Coleman, well-held by Donald and Henderson, kicked only one goal that day. Footscray faced Geelong in the preliminary final, needing to win to make their first-ever grand final. Although they led at halftime, Footscray lost by 26 points. Donald was again named Footscray's most valuable player, and was the club's best and fairest runner-up for the second consecutive year.

Footscray won their first VFL premiership in 1954. After finishing the home-and-away season in second place, they played Geelong for the second straight season for a spot in the grand final. With captain Charlie Sutton sidelined by injury, Donald captained the club to victory. With the score tied at three-quarter time, Footscray kicked 4.9 to 1.4 in the final quarter to win by 23 points and advance to their first grand final. Donald was carried off the field after the game ended. Sutton returned for the 1954 VFL Grand Final and Donald was again vice-captain as Footscray easily defeated Melbourne with a final score of 15.12.102 to 7.9.51. The game was Donald's 150th game for Footscray, who was again runner-up for the club's best and fairest award. The following season, Footscray missed a spot in the finals by 0.6 percent.

With Sutton announcing his retirement at the conclusion of round five of the 1956 VFL season, Donald became the full-time captain for the remainder of the season. Footscray returned to the finals, finishing in fourth place at the end of the home-and-away season, and again faced Geelong in the first semi-final. The club played well for the aging Donald, coming from behind to defeat Geelong by two points. In difficult conditions, in front of almost 80,000 people, only 11 goals were scored in the whole game (just one in the second half). Footscray trailed the Cats by two points at three-quarter time, but kicked 0.5.5 to 0.1.1 in the final quarter to advance to the preliminary final. They were defeated by Collingwood by 39 points, despite more scoring shots.

At the start of the 1957 VFL season, Donald resigned as captain (as Footscray opted for youthful leadership) and stepped down from all leadership positions in the club as his career drew to a close. The team's oldest player, he played 17 of 18 games and played his 200th VFL game late in the season. Although Donald wanted to play one more season, he retired two rounds into the 1958 season after playing 205 games for Footscray. He played in eight finals (winning four), one premiership and represented Victoria three times during his career. When Donald retired, only Arthur Olliver and Alby Morrison had played more games for Footscray and only more games at the Western Oval; Donald is now sixth on that list. Only two players have played more VFL-AFL games with just one career goal."

[merantau]

From '65 to '72 Ron McGowan frasom North Hobart played 92 games and kicked 2 goals wearing #22. He was a strong marking half back who later played in South Australia.

[merantau]

Ted Whitten Jnr. wore #22 from '74 to '82, played 144 games and kicked 133 goals. He was a beautiful kick and delivered many pin point pass to Kelvin Templeton.

This tribute to Ted was published on the Bulldogs Club website to celebrate his 60th Birthday. He would have played 250 plus games had injury not intervened.
**********************

"As the son of one of the greatest players to pull on a pair of footy boots, Ted Whitten Junior's life as a footballer was always going to be heavily scrutinised.

But the younger Whitten, who today celebrates his 60th birthday, was made to feel at ease about forging his own career by the great man himself. Speaking in a radio interview on SEN late last year, Whitten Junior said his father's advice to ignore external expectations stayed with him throughout his playing days.

"The old man was fantastic,” said Whitten Junior. “He always said don’t worry about what anyone else says, just make sure you do what your coach says and if he’s happy and the club is happy - as long as you’re giving 100 per cent - that’s fine."

Notwithstanding the at times unrealistic expectations placed on him when he joined the Bulldogs as a 17-year-old in 1974, young Ted carved out a fine career in his own right before it was ended by injury early in 1983, when he was still only 25 years old.

Whitten Junior had a solid debut against South Melbourne in round 4 of the 1974 season, picking up 16 touches in a win at the ground that now bears his father's name, but he found himself in and out of the side until late in the 1975 season when he had a breakout match - also against the Swans - kicking five goals and collecting 25 possessions.

From that point on, Whitten Junior was to become one of the first picked at the Footscray selection table each week, and his talent and consistency were rewarded in later seasons with selection in Victoria's State of Origin side, an achievement of which his famous father - who viewed interstate representation as the pinnacle of Australian football - was rightly very proud.

Whitten Junior had played 144 games and kicked 133 goals across nine impressive seasons at the Bulldogs when his career came to an abrupt and unfortunate end. Playing against Collingwood in a curtain-raiser to an Ash Wednesday bushfire charity match in early 1983, Whitten had a seemingly innocuous collision with a Magpie that was to end his playing days.

“I just went head-to-head with a Collingwood player, which is something you do every game, but came off second best – as it turned out it was a posterior cruciate ligament I did. Didn’t know it for a while, but that was basically the end of my footy career."

Whitten Junior underwent three reconstructive operations to no avail.

“After the third one I’d just had enough and wanted to play golf, do the fitness stuff and just try to live a general life playing a bit of sport.”

While his playing days were over, the game and the Bulldogs remained in the hearts of Ted Whitten Junior and Senior until the famous "E.J." passed away aged 62 as the result of prostate cancer in 1995. After his father's passing, Ted Junior established the E.J. Whitten Foundation to help raise awareness of prostate cancer and fund research into the disease.

Whitten Junior remains the Executive Director of the Foundation to this day."

[merantau]

In 1986 Mark Cullen played one game wearing #54. In '87 he appeared in #22 and wore that number for another 34 games and 25 goals up to his last appearance in 1991.

I actually played on him in a staff student football match at Sunshine North Tech. He was too good for me ... but that's not saying much!

[merantau]

From '93 to '97 Peter Quill from East Fremantle played 67 games in the #22 and kicked 20 goals.

[merantau]

Between '01 and '05 Ben Harrison from Richmond via Carlton played 85 games and kicked 32 goals wearing #22. He only missed a couple of games in his time with us and he played both foward and back. He gave us good service before injury raised its ugly head.

[merantau]

From '06 to '13 Dylan Addison played 88 games in the #22. He was a handy player who fulfilled a number of roles in his time with us.

[Nuggety Back Pocket]

Ted Whitten Jnr. wore #22 from '74 to '82, played 144 games and kicked 133 goals. He was a beautiful kick and delivered many pin point pass to Kelvin Templeton.

This tribute to Ted was published on the Bulldogs Club website to celebrate his 60th Birthday. He would have played 250 plus games had injury not intervened.
**********************

"As the son of one of the greatest players to pull on a pair of footy boots, Ted Whitten Junior's life as a footballer was always going to be heavily scrutinised.

But the younger Whitten, who today celebrates his 60th birthday, was made to feel at ease about forging his own career by the great man himself. Speaking in a radio interview on SEN late last year, Whitten Junior said his father's advice to ignore external expectations stayed with him throughout his playing days.

"The old man was fantastic,” said Whitten Junior. “He always said don’t worry about what anyone else says, just make sure you do what your coach says and if he’s happy and the club is happy - as long as you’re giving 100 per cent - that’s fine."

Notwithstanding the at times unrealistic expectations placed on him when he joined the Bulldogs as a 17-year-old in 1974, young Ted carved out a fine career in his own right before it was ended by injury early in 1983, when he was still only 25 years old.

Whitten Junior had a solid debut against South Melbourne in round 4 of the 1974 season, picking up 16 touches in a win at the ground that now bears his father's name, but he found himself in and out of the side until late in the 1975 season when he had a breakout match - also against the Swans - kicking five goals and collecting 25 possessions.

From that point on, Whitten Junior was to become one of the first picked at the Footscray selection table each week, and his talent and consistency were rewarded in later seasons with selection in Victoria's State of Origin side, an achievement of which his famous father - who viewed interstate representation as the pinnacle of Australian football - was rightly very proud.

Whitten Junior had played 144 games and kicked 133 goals across nine impressive seasons at the Bulldogs when his career came to an abrupt and unfortunate end. Playing against Collingwood in a curtain-raiser to an Ash Wednesday bushfire charity match in early 1983, Whitten had a seemingly innocuous collision with a Magpie that was to end his playing days.

“I just went head-to-head with a Collingwood player, which is something you do every game, but came off second best – as it turned out it was a posterior cruciate ligament I did. Didn’t know it for a while, but that was basically the end of my footy career."

Whitten Junior underwent three reconstructive operations to no avail.

“After the third one I’d just had enough and wanted to play golf, do the fitness stuff and just try to live a general life playing a bit of sport.”

While his playing days were over, the game and the Bulldogs remained in the hearts of Ted Whitten Junior and Senior until the famous "E.J." passed away aged 62 as the result of prostate cancer in 1995. After his father's passing, Ted Junior established the E.J. Whitten Foundation to help raise awareness of prostate cancer and fund research into the disease.

Whitten Junior remains the Executive Director of the Foundation to this day."
Ted junior has continued to be a fine Club man becoming a Selector after his playing days and has continued to have a close connection. Given his Father’s close association with Wally Donald you would have to wonder what influence he had on his son being given his same number 22. Ted jnr was a very skilled player and should have eventually played 200 games like Donald before the knee injury robbed him of retiring in his mid 20’s.

[bornadog]

Ted junior has continued to be a fine Club man becoming a Selector after his playing days and has continued to have a close connection. Given his Father’s close association with Wally Donald you would have to wonder what influence he had on his son being given his same number 22. Ted jnr was a very skilled player and should have eventually played 200 games like Donald before the knee injury robbed him of retiring in his mid 20’s.

I will never forget going to the Grand Final and trying to make my way through the crowd to get to the gate and pushing through the middle and passing me was Tedjr. I for some reason at that moment yelled Teddy, and he high fived me. Doesn't sound like much, but it added to the great feeling of being at the Granny.

[Grantysghost]

This is the greatest thread ever. Loving it thanks Merantau.

[Twodogs]

Wish I'd seen that. Does anyone remember the first game at Western Oval after the 50mt line was introduced? The groundsman marked out a 50m line alright. But it went straight across the ground. The groundsman was inspired by Sheedy and the windsock maybe!

That was my dad! He worked as a painter at Footscray council and the 50 metre line was a last minute decision made by the league in the week leading up to the game. The groundsman who normally did the linemarking was sick or wasn't available for some reason so dad got tapped on he shoulder and was told to go the ground and mark a line 50 metres out from the goalposts.

I can remember standing with him before the game looking at the lines and saying "ummm. Can you see the problem here dad?"

[EasternWest]

From '06 to '13 Dylan Addison played 88 games in the #22. He was a handy player who fulfilled a number of roles in his time with us.

Hmm. Never heard of him.

Maybe you should talk about him in greater detail.

[merantau]

This is the greatest thread ever. Loving it thanks Merantau.

No, IMO the greatest thread ever is down to Rocco Jones: "The Official Sam Reid/Daniel Currie Memorial Eker Thread." Every page is a delight and it has stood the test of time.

[merantau]

Hmm. Never heard of him.

Maybe you should talk about him in greater detail.

If there's a back story here I don't know it! Other than he went to the Plastics when we dropped him off the list.

[EasternWest]

If there's a back story here I don't know it! Other than he went to the Plastics when we dropped him off the list.

I feel personally attacked.

[merantau]

I feel personally attacked.

You've lost me. I'm clueless!

[Doc26]

You've lost me. I'm clueless!

EasternWest ran the Dylan Addison Appreciation Society for many years.

[merantau]

Aha! See I'm a relative late comer to WOOF so that explains my ignorance. Thanks for the heads up.

[chef]

DFAforPM ring a bell?

[merantau]

I feel personally attacked.

Now I get it! I can see I have some homework to do to get up to speed with everything Dylan Addison.

[bornadog]

Now I get it! I can see I have some homework to do to get up to speed with everything Dylan Addison.

and another much loved favourite Ben Harrison :D:D:D

[EasternWest]

EasternWest ran the Dylan Addison Appreciation Society for many years.

What do you mean, "ran"?

This burning is an eternal flame.

[merantau]

What do you mean, "ran"?

This burning is an eternal flame.

Dylan lives! Like the British Empire, on which, at its peak, the sun never set, there is not a moment in time whereby someone, somewhere in the world, is not thinking thoughts of Dylan.

[merantau]

From '57 to '64 John Hoiles, from Sunbury, played 117 games. He played his first season in #39 but thereafter in #23.
He had a very unusual kicking style, was strong and good in the air. He played a crackerjack game in the '61 Prelim at CHB. Played 101 games on the trot between '59 and his departure to captain/coach Corowa in the Ovens and Murray. He played in a Premiership with them in 1968 - their first in 36 years. I met him in Bendigo in 2016 when a photo shoot of supporters was organised by the Bendigo Advertiser prior to the GF - a very passionate Bulldog. Turns 82 this year.

[merantau]

Between '62 and '77 Stuart Magee played 216 games and kicked 149 goals - 132 of them and 77 goals were in his 8 seasons with us - the rest in his 7 seasons with South.

"Magee, who played as a centreman and rover, made his debut for South Melbourne in 1962. By 1966 he was representing Victoria at interstate football but soon after he lost his way and was let go by South Melbourne. He was signed up by Footscray and became captain of the club during the 1970 season. In 1976 he moved to the WANFL and joined the Swan Districts as captain-coach." (Wikipedia)

Stuart was born in Ireland and lived in Altona. I think he was a convert from soccer. He had plenty of pace and an excellent all round game. Certainly served us well. Wore #6 in his first year with us. Thereafter #23.