The Essendon Football Club is one of Australia’s oldest and most successful professional Australian Rules Football clubs. Founded in 1872, the club is based in Melbourne’s western suburbs and has been a dominant force in the AFL for decades.
Nicknamed the ‘Bombers’, Essendon’s long and successful history includes 16 VFL/AFL premierships, the most recent in 2000. Boasting a large and passionate supporter base, Essendon continues to make its mark in the AFL, providing an exciting brand of football for Australian Rules fans.
1. John Coleman
Career
- 1949–1954: Essendon
- 1961–1967: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1967.
- 2× VFL Premiership player: (1949, 1950), 2× Jock McHale Medal
John Coleman was a full-forward who played for Essendon in the 1949–54 seasons. Coleman made 98 appearances for Essendon, scoring 537 goals. Coleman died from cancer at 44 years old in 1973.
After playing his football with Hastings, Coleman coached at various clubs including Werribee and North Melbourne before returning to coaching duties with Port Fairy in 1986.
He passed away two years later at the age of 47 due to a heart attack suffered while out running Coleman was a prolific goalkicker for Essendon and Australian football in the 1950s.
Coleman also won two Jock McHale Medals as best and fairest player at Essendon during that time period, as well as five VFL leading goalkicker awards.
He represented Australia on numerous occasions, including three All-Australian teams and being inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame in 1996.
Also Played For: australian football league
2. Dick Reynolds
Career
- 1933–1951: Essendon
- 1939–1960: Essendon (VFL)
- 1961–1963: West Torrens (SANFL)
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1951., 3 Coaching statistics correct as of 1963.
- 4× Essendon Premiership player: (1942, 1946, 1949, 1950), 3× Brownlow Medal
Dick Reynolds was an Australian football player who played for Essendon and Victoria in the 1930s and 1940s. He is best known for his time at Essendon, where he was a key member of the club's premiership-winning side in 1951.
After retiring from playing, Reynolds became a successful coach, leading Melbourne to two premierships in 1978 and 1982. Reynolds was one of the most successful players in Essendon's history, winning four premierships and seven W.S.
Crichton Medals during his time with the club. Reynolds played a key role in leading Essendon to back-to-back premierships in 1949 and 1950, as well as kicking numerous goals for the Bombers over that period.
After leaving Essendon at the end of 1950, Reynolds spent several years coaching both at junior level and overseas before retiring from football altogether later on in life.
3. Andrew McGrath
Essendon Football Club
Career
- 2017–: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of the 2022 season.
- Ron Evans Medal: 2017, AFLPA best first year player
McGrath was drafted number one in the 2016 national draft by Essendon. McGrath is a midfielder/defender who played for Sandringham Dragons in the TAC Cup.
In 2017, McGrath made his AFL debut for Essendon and has since played 18 games for the club averaging 17 disposals and three marks per game.
McGrath signed with Collingwood on a four-year contract during the 2018 offseason but left just six months into it after struggling to establish himself in coach Nathan Buckley's team.
In 2019, McGrath rejoined Essendon on a new two-year deal and is set to play an important role in their rebuilding process under new coach John Worsfold McGrath was drafted by Essendon in the 2017 national draft.
He made his debut for the Bombers in round one of the 2018 season and played 211 games for them before being traded to Carlton at the end of 2019.
McGrath is a versatile player who can play as either a key forward or on the wing. His strengths lie in his ability to score goals and cause problems down low, which has seen him win numerous awards during his career including both Ron Evans Medals (2015, 2017) and AFLPA best first year player honors (2017).
McGrath will be hoping to continue this form with Carlton where he joins up with former Bombers teammates Dyson Heppell, Devon Smith and Zach Merrett.
4. James Hird
Essendon Football Club
Career
- Years: Club: Games (Goals)
- 1992–2007: Essendon: 253 (343)
- Years: Club: Games (W–L–D)
- 2011–2013, 2015: Essendon: 85 (41–43–1)
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 2007., 2 State and international statistics correct as of 2004., 3 Coaching statistics correct as of 2015.
- 2x AFL premierships: 1993, 2000 (captain), Brownlow Medal: 1996, 5x All-Australian team: 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2003, 5x Essendon best and fairest: 1994, 1995, 1996, 2003, 2007, Norm Smith Medal: 2000, 2x Essendon leading goalkicker: 1995–96, Essendon captain: 1998–2005, Australian Football Hall of Fame, Essendon Team of the Century, Champions of Essendon: No. 3, 3x AFL pre-season premierships: 1993, 1994, 2000, 3x AFL Anzac Medal: 2000, 2003, 2004, Jim Stynes Medal: 2000, Football Achievement Award: 2007, Personal Development Award: 2007, 1993 AFL Rising Star nominee
James Hird played 253 games for Essendon over a 10-year period, becoming one of the club's all-time greats. In 2004, James was named captain of Australia and led his side to their first World Cup victory in 28 years.
After leaving Essendon in 2007, James embarked on a successful coaching career with the Carlton Football Club and the Melbourne Demons before being sacked at the end of 2016 season. James Hird was the captain of Essendon for nine seasons, from 1998 until 2005.
He led the Bombers to two premierships and five All-Australian selections during his time at the club. In 2000, he won the Norm Smith Medal as Australian Football League (AFL) best and fairest player.
He also played a major role in developing some of Essendon's stars, such as Jobe Watson and Brent Stanton.
After leaving Essendon in 2005, Hird went on to coach Melbourne before being sacked midway through the 2012 season after a series of controversial comments made about team members and officials. Since then, he has been working as an assistant coach with Carlton.
Also Played For: australian rules football
5. Tom Fitzmaurice
Career
- 1918–1924: Essendon
- 1925–1928: Geelong
- 1932–1935: North Melbourne
- 1928: Geelong
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1935.
- Essendon premierships 1923, 1924, Essendon best and fairest 1922, 1923, 1924, Essendon Team of the Century, Geelong premiership 1925, Geelong captain-coach 1928, North Melbourne joint captain-coach 1934–1935, North Melbourne leading goalkicker 1932, 1934, Victorian representative 12 matches, New South Wales representative 1 match
Tom Fitzmaurice was an Australian Rules footballer who played for Essendon and Geelong in the 1920s. He is best remembered for his time with North Melbourne, where he played 196 games over a five-year period.
Fitzmaurice was born in Fitzroy North, Victoria in 1898. He started playing Australian Rules football with Essendon CYMS in 1918, and quickly became a key player for the club.
In 1924, Fitzmaurice was traded to Geelong, and he played 49 matches for the club over the next four years.
In 1928, Fitzmaurice was traded to North Melbourne. He played 54 matches for the club over the next three years, before retiring in 1935.
Fitzmaurice later worked as a coach for North Melbourne and Essendon. He died in 1977 at the age of 79. Tom Fitzmaurice was a premiership-winning captain-coach with Essendon and Geelong in the 1920s.
He also represented Victoria and New South Wales at interstate level. He was a prolific goalkicker, with 322 goals in 322 games. Fitzmaurice later served as a coach at North Melbourne and Essendon. He died in 2006 at the age of 87.
Also Played For: north melbourne football club
6. Gavin Wanganeen
Defender
Career
- 1990, 2006: Port Adelaide (SANFL)
- 1991–1996: Essendon
- 1997–2006: Port Adelaide
- 2× AFL Premiership player: (1993, 2004), SANFL Premiership player
Gavin Wanganeen was born in Mount Gambier, South Australia in 1973. He started his career with Salisbury North in the South Australian National Football League (SAAFL).
Wanganeen joined Essendon in the National Football League (NFL) in 1989 and played for the club until 2006. He played for Port Adelaide in the SANFL from 1990 to 2006 and represented South Australia on eight occasions.
Wanganeen was a part of the Essendon side that won the AFL Premiership in 1991. He was also a member of the Port Adelaide side that won the SANFL Championship in 1997 and the AFL Grand Final in 2003.
Wanganeen has had a successful coaching career, serving as an assistant coach at Essendon from 2003 to 2006 and at Port Adelaide from 2007 to 2009.
He was appointed coach of the South Australian state side in 2010 and led the team to the Australian National Football Championships in 2013. Wanganeen remains a highly respected figure in the AFL and is currently an assistant coach at Port Adelaide.
Also Played For: port adelaide football club
7. Bill Hutchison
Career
- 1942–1957: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1957.
- Essendon premiership side: 1942, 1946, 1949–1950, Essendon captain
Bill Hutchison was an Australian rules footballer who played for Essendon in the Victorian Football League (VFL). He was a prolific goal scorer and was named the league's best and fairest in 1957.
Hutchison enlisted in the Australian Army in 1942 and served in the Second World War. After the war, Hutchison returned to Essendon and in 1947 was runner up in the VFL's best and fairest award.
In 1957, Hutchison was the league's best and fairest and was also selected in the Australian national team for the first time.
He played two Tests against New Zealand that year. Hutchison retired from football in 1957 and later worked as a coach with Essendon and the Westmeadows Football Club. He died in 1982 at the age of 59.
Hutchison is remembered as a tough and uncompromising player who was a key figure in Essendon's successful era in the VFL.
He is also a member of the Australian Football Hall of Fame. Hutchison's son, Brent, also played football for Essendon and was a multiple premiership player. Hutchison's grandson, Tom, is a professional footballer who currently plays for Melbourne Victory.
Hutchison's legacy lives on through his son, grandson and many other footballers who have been influenced by him.
8. John Birt
Career
- 1957–1967: Essendon
- 1971: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1967.
- Victorian interstate representative - 11 games, "The Galahs" representative - 1968 Australian Football World Tour
John Birt is a retired Australian rules footballer who played for Essendon in the Victorian Football League (VFL). He is best known for his time at Essendon, where he was a key player in the club's successful era in the 1960s and 1970s.
Birt also enjoyed a successful coaching career, leading Essendon to three premierships and two grand finals.
He was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2003 and the Essendon Football Club Hall of Fame in 2007. Birt retired from coaching in 1990 and now works in the media.
John Birt was a key player for Essendon during the club's golden era of the 1970s. Birt played at full back and was a key defender for the Bombers.
He represented Victoria at interstate level, and was a member of the team that toured Europe in 1968. Birt retired at the end of the 1976 season.
He has since been involved in coaching and officiating, and currently works as an assistant coach at Essendon.
Birt is a respected figure within the AFL community and is highly regarded by his peers. He is a highly respected coach and has been involved in a number of successful coaching stints.
John Birt is a well-respected figure in the AFL community and is highly regarded by his peers. He is a highly respected coach and has been involved in a number of successful coaching stints.
9. Keith Forbes
Career
- 1926–1928: Coburg (VFA)
- 1928–1937: Essendon (VFL)
- 1938–1939: North Melbourne (VFL)
- 1940: Fitzroy (VFL)
- 1938–1939: North Melbourne
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1940.
Keith Forbes was a rover in the VFA during the 1920s and 1930s. He played 141 games and scored 44 goals for the club. Forbes later played for Coburg in the Victorian Football Association (VFA) and was a member of their premiership team in 1947.
He also played for Carlton in the Victorian Football League (VFL) during the 1950s. Forbes was inducted into the Coburg Hall of Fame in 1991 and the VFA Hall of Fame in 1998. He was also awarded an honorary life membership of the Coburg Football Club in 1992.
Forbes retired from football in 1961 and died in 1996 at the age of 90. Forbes started his coaching career with North Melbourne in 1938, before moving on to Fitzroy in 1940. During his time at both clubs, Forbes enjoyed a successful record, winning four VFL premierships.
Forbes is widely considered to be one of the greatest coaches in VFL history and his record of winning four premierships during a six-year period is unrivalled.
Forbes was also a key figure in the development of the game of Australian Rules, helping to shape the modern game as we know it.
After retiring from coaching, Forbes worked as a television commentator for many years. Forbes passed away in 2007, but his legacy lives on through the continued success of the Australian Football League.
Forbes is a genuine Australian football icon and his contribution to the game will never be forgotten.
Keith Forbes is one of the most successful coaches in Australian football history and his contribution to the game will never be forgotten.
10. Reg Burgess
Career
- 1954–1960: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1960.
- Best and fairest 1957, 1960
Reg Burgess is a retired English football player who played for Apsley. He was born on 6 August 1934 and played for the club until 1965. He was part of the team that won the FA Cup in 1963 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1965.
He also won the English Football League in 1962 and the Football League Cup in 1964. He later played for non-league clubs Welwyn Garden City and Bedford Town. He retired from playing in 1971. Reg Burgess is now a football commentator and manager.
He has also written a book about his football career. Reg Burgess was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2003.
Reg Burgess was one of the most prolific forwards in Essendon's history. He was a regular member of the club's best and fairest award winners and was a valuable member of the team.
Burgess was born in Melbourne in 1954 and started playing football at the age of six. He spent his early career playing for the Calder Cannons and was recruited by Essendon in the early stages of the 1970s.
Burgess was a prolific forward and played 124 games for the Bombers between 1954 and 1960. He was a member of Essendon's premiership side in 1957 and won the best and fairest award in 1960.
Burgess retired from football in the early stages of the 1960s and later served as a football commentator for the ABC. He died in 2016 at the age of 82.
11. Ken Fraser
Career
- 1958–1968: Essendon
- Essendon premiership player 1962, Essendon premiership captain 1965, Essendon Team of the Century, W. S. Crichton Medal 1963, 1964, Essendon captain 1965–1968, Australian Football Hall of Fame, inducted 2001
Ken Fraser was born in 1940 and played for Essendon in the 1958-1968 seasons. He was a Victorian representative player, and scored 20 goals in 9 games. Fraser was a powerful attacker who was known for his strong marking and ball-winning abilities.
Fraser later played for Melbourne in the VFL, where he was a key player in their 1975 premiership victory. He retired from playing in 1978.
Fraser has since enjoyed a successful career in coaching, first at Melbourne University and then at St Kilda.
He was appointed coach of the Australian national team in 2007, and led them to the 2007 Rugby World Cup. Fraser was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2009.
Fraser is a highly respected coach, and has helped many players develop their skills both on and off the field.
12. Bill Busbridge
Career
- Years: Club: Games (Goals)
- 1904–1912: Essendon: 103 (32)
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1912.
Bill Busbridge was a football (soccer) player who played for Essendon Town (VFA) in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Busbridge made his debut for Essendon in 1907 and played a total of 154 games for the club.
He was captain of Essendon from 1922 to 1924 and was also a member of the Victorian interstate team. Busbridge later coached Essendon and was also the coach of the Victorian state team. Bill Busbridge was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1985.
He died in 1943 at the age of 58 after a long illness. Bill Busbridge was an Australian rules football player who played for Essendon in the Australian Football League (AFL).
He was a prolific goalscorer during his career, and is still the club's second-most successful goal-scorer of all time.
Busbridge was born in 1877 in Melbourne, Victoria, and played his football for the North Melbourne Football Club in the Victorian Football Association (VFA).
He was recruited to Essendon in 1904, and made his debut the following year. He remained at the club until 1912, and was a key player during their premiership-winning season in 1907.
Busbridge retired from playing football in 1912, and later became a football administrator. He served as the secretary of the Victorian Football Association from 1913 to 1915, and as the president of the Victorian Football League from 1921 to 1922.
He was also a member of the Victorian Football Tribunal from 1922 to 1924.
He died in 1969. Busbridge is one of only five players to have scored 100 goals in both the VFA and the AFL, and is also the only player to have won both the VFA Best and Fairest Award and the AFL Most Valuable Player Award.
He is an Australian football icon, and has been inducted into both the Australian Football Hall of Fame and the Victorian Football Hall of Fame.
13. Wally Buttsworth
Career
- 1935–1937: West Perth
- 1939–1949: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1949.
- West Perth premiership player 1935, West Perth best and fairest 1937[1], Essendon best and fairest 1941, 1945 & 1947, Essendon premiership player 1942 & 1946, Essendon Team of the Century (Centre half-back)
Wally Buttsworth was born in North Perth, Western Australia in 1917. He played 51 games for West Perth in the 1935-37 seasons, scoring 10 goals. Buttsworth then moved to Sydney where he played for Sydney Olympic between 1937 and 1941.
He then played for APIA Leichhardt between 1941 and 1946. After leaving APIA Leichhardt, Buttsworth played for Newtown, Balmain, and Wentworth in the Sydney premiership. He then moved to New Zealand, where he played for Wellington between 1947 and 1951.
Buttsworth then moved to Brisbane, where he played for the Brisbane Broncos between 1951 and 1955. He then moved to England, where he played for Swindon Town, Stockport County, and Wrexham. Wally Buttsworth then retired from professional football in 1960.
Wally Buttsworth was a player for Essendon in the 1940s. He was a member of the club's premiership-winning teams in 1942 and 1946.
Buttsworth was also a West Perth player before joining Essendon. He won a premiership with the club in 1935 and was named the best and fairest player at West Perth that year.
Buttsworth played with Essendon for nine seasons, from 1939 to 1949. He was a versatile player, able to play in the midfield or at half-back.
Buttsworth retired from football after the 1949 season. He later served as a football coach, working with the Essendon Under-19s and the Essendon VFL team. Wally Buttsworth was a key player for Essendon during its historic premiership years in the 1940s.
He was a versatile player who was able to play in the midfield or at half-back. He retired from football after the 1949 season and later served as a football coach.
14. Simon Madden
Career
- 1974–1992: Essendon
- Club, 2x VFL Premiership: 1984, 1985, 3x All-Australian
Simon Madden is one of the most successful Australian Rules Footballers of all time, playing for Essendon for a total of 378 games and scoring 575 goals.
He was a key player for Victoria in the 1970s and 1980s, playing 17 games for them and 21 games for Victoria. He was also a part of Essendon's successful 1990s era, winning three premierships with the club.
Simon Madden is now retired from the game, but still remains an iconic figure in Australian Rules Football. Madden played 234 games for Essendon from 1977-1991, kicking 328 goals.
Madden was an important part of the Essendon dynasty, playing as captain from 1980-1981.
Madden was a versatile player, able to play on either flank or as a key forward. Madden was a three-time All-Australian and won the Norm Smith Medal in 1985.
Madden was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2003. Madden is currently the senior coach of the Pies.
15. Jack Clarke
Career
- 1951–1967: Essendon
- 1968–1970: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1967., 3 Coaching statistics correct as of 1970.
- Essendon premiership captain 1962, Essendon premiership player 1965, All-Australian team 1953, 1956, 1958, Essendon captain 1958–1964, W. S. Crichton Medal 1958, 1962
Jack Clarke was one of the most successful players in Essendon's history, playing 263 games for the club and 180 goals. Clarke was a key player in Essendon's 1962 VFL Grand Final victory over Collingwood.
Clarke retired from playing in 1967, but continued to work as a football coach with Essendon and Melbourne. Clarke died in 2001 at the age of 68 after a long illness. Jack Clarke was an AFL player for Essendon from 1968 to 1970.
Clarke was captain of the Essendon premiership team in 1965. Clarke played in the All-Australian team in 1953, 1956, 1958. Clarke was also captain of Essendon from 1958 to 1964. Clarke was awarded the W. S. Crichton Medal in 1958 and 1962.
Clarke finished his playing career with Essendon in 1970. After his playing career, Clarke coached Essendon from 1970 to 1974.
Clarke then coached the Geelong Falcons in the Victorian Football League from 1974 to 1976. Clarke then coached the South Melbourne Rabbitohs from 1976 to 1978.
16. Harold Lambert
Career
- 1940–41, 1946–51: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1951.
- Essendon Premiership 1946, 1949, 1950
Harold Lambert was a talented Australian Rules footballer who played for La Mascotte in the Victorian Football League (VFL). He was a key player for the club and helped them to win the premiership in 1943.
Lambert later played for Melbourne in the Australian National Football League (AFL). He played for Melbourne for over 20 years and was a key player for the club during that time. He retired from playing in 1966 and later served as a coach for the club.
Lambert was born in 1922 in Essendon, Victoria. He played football for La Mascotte in the Victorian Football League (VFL) and was a key player for the club.
La Mascotte won the premiership in 1943 with Lambert playing a major role in the team. Lambert later played for Melbourne in the Australian National Football League (AFL).
He was a key player for the club and helped them to win the premiership in 1966. Lambert retired from playing in 1966 and later served as a coach for the club. Lambert was a very talented footballer and was a key player for both La Mascotte and Melbourne.
He is remembered as one of the all-time greats of Australian Rules football and is a member of the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
17. Tim Watson
Career
- 1977–1991, 1993–1994: Essendon
- 1999–2000: St Kilda
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1994., 2 State and international statistics correct as of 1985., 3 Coaching statistics correct as of 2000.
- 3× VFL/AFL Premiership: 1984, 1985, 1993, VFLPA MVP (Leigh Matthews Trophy)
Tim Watson played 307 games for Essendon between 1977 and 1991, kicking 335 goals. Watson then spent three seasons as a player-coach with Victoria before coaching at various clubs.
Watson was appointed head coach of the Brisbane Lions in December 2017. Watson was a prominent player in the early days of the AFL and helped lead St Kilda to their first premiership in 1999.
Watson also played a big role in Essendon's success in the 1980s and 1990s, captaining the team to back-to-back AFL championships in 1990 and 1991.
Watson was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2001 and is currently a coach with the Essendon Bombers.
18. Albert Thurgood
Career
- 1892–1894: Essendon (VFA)
- 1895–1897: Fremantle (WAFA)
- 1899–1902, 1906: Essendon (VFL)
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1906.
- 3 × VFA premiership player: 1892, 1893, 1894, 2 x WAFA premiership player
Albert Thurgood was born on January 11, 1874 in North Melbourne, Victoria. He played for Essendon in the Victorian Football Association (VFA) from 1892 to 1894, and for Fremantle in the Western Australian Football Association (WAFA) from 1895 to 1897.
He was drafted to the VFL in 1899, and played for Essendon until 1902 and 1906. He was captain-coach of Essendon in 1902.
He died on May 8, 1927 in Malvern, Victoria. Albert Thurgood was one of the leading goalkickers in the Victorian Football League (VFL) in the early 1900s.
He also played for Essendon, where he was a five-time leading goalkicker and a member of the Australian Football Hall of Fame. Albert Thurgood was born in 1896 and died in 1966.
19. Fred Baring
Career
- Years: Club: Games (Goals)
- 1910–1924: Essendon: 154 (92)
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1924.
Fred Baring was born in 1890 in Victoria, Australia. He played for East Melbourne in the VFA during the 1910s. Baring was also a cricket player, and represented Victoria in Test matches in the 1920s.
He died in 1961 at the age of 70. Baring is remembered for his playing career, as well as his work in cricket administration. He was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1971. Baring Avenue in East Melbourne is named in his honour.
Fred Baring was a prolific goal-kicker for Essendon in the early years of the Victorian Football League. He played 154 games for the club and kicked 92 goals.
Baring was a powerful and skilled player, who was able to win most of his footy matches by big marks and powerful kicks.
Baring retired from playing in 1924, but continued to be involved with Essendon as a coach and administrator. He died in 1967. Baring was a highly respected member of the football community, and was awarded an OAM in 1967.
Baring is remembered as one of the most important players in Essendon's history, and is considered one of the greatest goal-kickers in VFL/AFL history.
Fred Baring is a highly respected member of the football community and is remembered as one of the greats of the Victorian Football League.
20. Mark Thompson
Career
- 1983–1996: Essendon
- 2000–2010: Geelong
- 2014: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1996., 2 State and international statistics correct as of 2014.
- Playing, , Essendon premiership player: 1984, 1985, Essendon premiership captain
Thompson was a highly successful defender in the AFL, winning a premiership with Essendon in 1996. After retirement, Thompson became a successful coach, leading the Brisbane Lions to the 2011 AFL Premiership.
Thompson has also been a regular commentator on AFL and VFL matches, as well as hosting his own football show. Thompson was born in Melbourne in 1963, and played for Airport West (EDFL) in the Victorian Football League (VFL) before joining Essendon in 1983.
Thompson was a key player in Essendon's successful 1996 premiership campaign, and was also a member of Victoria's 1986 state side. After retiring from playing in 1996, Thompson began a successful coaching career, leading the Brisbane Lions to the 2011 AFL Premiership.
Thompson also regularly provides commentary for AFL and VFL matches, as well as hosting his own football show. Thompson was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 2010 for his services to football.
Thompson was born in Melbourne in 1963, and played for Airport West (EDFL) in the Victorian Football League (VFL) before joining Essendon in 1983.
21. Graham Moss
Career
- 1969–72, 1977–85: Claremont
- 1973–76: Essendon
- 1977–86: Claremont
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1985.
- Brownlow Medal: (1976), 3× W.S. Crichton Medal
Graham Moss was a prolific goalscorer in a playing career that spanned over 30 years. He had a successful stint at Claremont and represented Western Australia at state level.
After finishing his playing career, Moss coached at Claremont for a number of years. He is currently the head coach of the Sandringham Dragons in the VFL. Moss has been named as the interim head coach of the Australia national team in February 2018.
He is a two-time winner of the Peter Jackson medal, awarded to the best and fairest player in the WAFL. Moss is a qualified physiotherapist and has worked as a sports scientist for a number of teams.
He was born in Perth and has two children. Moss is a devout Christian and has spoken about his faith in the media.
Graham Moss was a talented footballer who was captain of Claremont in the WAFL. He was also a well-known coach, managing the club to two championships in 1981.
He was also a recipient of many awards, including the Brownlow Medal and the Simpson Medal. He is now considered one of the greatest players in WAFL history.
Moss was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1996 and the West Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
22. Barry Davis
Career
- 1961–1972: Essendon
- 1973–1975: North Melbourne
- 1978 – 1980: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1980.
Barry Davis was born on 15 September 1943 in Essendon, Victoria. Davis played football for Essendon High School and went on to play for the Essendon Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL).
Davis was a star player for Essendon and was recognised with 3 Brownlow Medal nominations and 1 win. Davis played his last season of football in 1980 and retired from the game.
Davis later worked in a number of different jobs, including as a journalist and football commentator.
Davis was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2003 and continues to be a popular figure in the sport.
Davis was diagnosed with dementia in 2009 and passed away in 2014 at the age of 79. Barry Davis was an excellent footballer who was recognised with numerous awards and accolades during his career.
23. Matthew Lloyd
Career
- 1995–2009: Essendon
- 3× Coleman Medal: 2000, 2001, 2003, 12× Essendon leading goalkicker
Lloyd is a former full-forward for Essendon and Victoria and is considered one of the greatest players of his era.
He is the highest goal scorer in the club's history and won three consecutive premierships with the Bombers.
Lloyd played for Victoria in the 1997-1999 season and kicked three goals in three games. Lloyd was drafted by Essendon in the 1995 Pre-Season Draft and made his debut in 1995. He played 270 games for the Bombers and kicked 926 goals.
Lloyd retired from the AFL in 2009 and has since been involved in a number of business ventures. Lloyd was named in the Melbourne Football Club's Team of the Century in 2007. Lloyd was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2012.
Lloyd was awarded an OAM in 2013 for services to sport. Lloyd is currently the CEO of a Melbourne-based healthcare company.
24. Mark Harvey
Career
- 1984–1997: Essendon
- 2007–2011: Fremantle
- 2013: Brisbane Lions
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1997., 3 Coaching statistics correct as of 2013.
- 3× VFL/AFL premiership: 1984, 1985, 1993, 2× All-Australian team
Harvey was a prolific goal scorer during his playing career, amassing 170 goals over 206 games for Essendon. He represented Victoria in a number of representative matches, including the State of Origin series.
After finishing his playing career, Harvey took up a coaching position with Essendon's junior side. He was sacked from this position in 2013 following an altercation with a player. Harvey has since taken up a position with the Melbourne Demons as their football operations manager.
Harvey is a member of the Australian Football Hall of Fame. He has two sons, Jake and Jack, and lives in Melbourne. Harvey is a devout Christian and has spoken about his faith in the media.
Harvey is currently the Demons' general manager of football operations. Mark Harvey is a former AFL footballer who played for Fremantle, Brisbane and Essendon.
He was a premiership player with Fremantle in 1984 and 1985, and was an All-Australian in 1985. He also played for Victoria in the interstate football competition, winning the W. S. Crichton Medal in 1992.
He has since coached at a number of clubs, most recently Brisbane Lions. Harvey's coaching career has been successful, with the Lions winning the 2013 AFL Premiership.
He is now in his fourth season as head coach of the Fremantle Football Club. Mark Harvey is a highly respected figure in the AFL coaching fraternity.
He is a former player who has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with his team. Harvey is one of the most successful coaches in the history of Australian football.
25. Terry Daniher
Career
- 1976–1977: South Melbourne
- 1978–1992: Essendon
- VFL Premiership: 1984, 1985, VFLPA MVP (Leigh Matthews Trophy)
Terry Daniher is a world-renowned Australian football player who is considered one of the greatest players of all time. He played for Essendon for over 20 years and is responsible for over 300 goals.
He was born in West Wyalong, New South Wales and played for Ungarie in the New South Wales National Football League (NRFNL) before joining South Melbourne in 1976. He was drafted by Essendon in 1978 and went on to play for the club for over 294 games, amassing 447 goals.
He was a member of the Victoria national side for 11 years and was a part of the team that won the interstate championship in 1985.
He was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2003 and has been awarded the Australian Sports Medal in 2000 and the Australian Football League (AFL) Medal in 2001.
He was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2004 and had surgery to remove a tumor from his bowel. Terry Daniher is currently the senior coach of the Essendon VFL side. He has two children, daughter Dani and son Daniher Jr, and lives in Melbourne with his wife Tania.
26. Michael Long
Career
- 1988: West Torrens
- 1989–2001: Essendon
- Dual Essendon premiership player: 1993, 2000, Norm Smith Medal
Michael Long is an Australian rules football player who played for West Torrens and Essendon in the Australian Football League. He was a midfielder and had 143 goals from 190 games.
Long was born on the Tiwi Islands and moved to Adelaide to play Australian rules football when he was young. He first played for St Mary's/West Torrens in the Australian Football League in 1988.
Long was drafted by Essendon in the 1988 national draft and played for the club until 2001. He represented Australia at international level, playing in the 1992, 1993, 1995 and 1999 AFL International Rules Series.
Long has since retired from playing football and works as a football commentator. Long was named an Australian Football Hall of Fame inductee in 2013. He has two children and lives in Melbourne.
27. Zach Merrett
Career
- 2014–: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of the 2022 season.
- 3× W.S. Crichton Medal: 2016, 2019, 2021, 2× All-Australian team
Zach Merrett is a talented midfielder who has played for Melbourne Grammar, Sandringham Dragons and Essendon in the AFL.
Merrett is a strong runner and user of the ball, and has a good goalkicking ability.
He has been a part of Essendon's successful past couple of seasons, and is expected to continue this in the future. Merrett is a hard worker and is always looking to improve his game. Zach Merrett was drafted by Essendon with their first pick in the 2014 AFL Draft.
Merrett has played 184 games for the Bombers, and has kicked 56 goals. Merrett has been a part of the Essendon side that has won 3 W.S. Crichton Medals, 2 All-Australian teams, and 3 22under22 teams.
Merrett has been a part of the Australian side that has competed in the World Cup twice, and the Olympic Games once.
Merrett is an important part of the Essendon midfield, and is one of the leaders of the team. Merrett is a hard-working player, and is always looking to contribute to the team. Merrett is an excellent ball-winner, and is always looking to help his team score.
28. Dyson Heppell
Career
- 2011–: Essendon
- Essendon captain: 2017–2022, All-Australian team
Dyson Heppell is a midfielder and defender for Essendon. He was drafted in 2010 and made his debut in Round 1 of the 2011 season.
Heppell has played 97 games for Essendon, averaging 22.2 disposals and 1.5 goals per game.
Heppell was selected in the All-Australian team in 2017 and was runner-up in the best and fairest award that season.
He is contracted to Essendon until the end of the 2020 season. Heppell is married to former Miss Universe Australia 2013 Olivia Newton-John and they have two children.
Heppell is a ambassador for the Australian Red Cross and has raised money for the organisation through his charity match day challenge.
In December 2018, Heppell announced he would retire at the end of the season. Heppell was born in Leongatha, Victoria, and represented Victoria at under-16 and under-18 level before making the switch to Gippsland Power.
Heppell is a keen golfer and has won two Victorian Opens.
29. Tom Reynolds
Career
- 1937–1944: Essendon
- 1945: St Kilda
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1945.
- Essendon premiership player: 1942
Tom Reynolds was a consistent performer on the Essendon Football Club's list during the 1940s and 1950s. He was a key member of the team that won the 1951 premiership and was also a part of the side that finished second in the 1959 premiership.
Reynolds was also a hard-nosed player and was known for his strong marking and tackling. He retired from the AFL in the late 1960s and later played for several Victorian Football League (VFL) clubs. Reynolds was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1999.
He died in 2002 at the age of 84 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Reynolds was a respected figure in the Essendon community and is fondly remembered by teammates, fans and opponents alike.
Reynolds was a key forward for Essendon in the 1940s, playing in their premiership side in 1942.
Reynolds also represented Australia at interstate football, winning a premiership with St Kilda in 1945. After playing football for over a decade, Reynolds retired from the sport in 1954.
Reynolds later worked as a journalist and broadcaster, and served as president of the Victorian Football League from 1986 to 1990.
Reynolds was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1990. Reynolds died in Melbourne in 2003.
30. Ernie Cameron
Career
- 1905–1912: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1912.
Ernie Cameron was born in 1888 in North Melbourne, Victoria. He worked as a cinematographer and cameraman in the early days of motion pictures. Cameron was one of the first filmmakers to use special effects in movies.
He directed some of the earliest science fiction films, including "The Terminator" and "The Abyss". Cameron was also known for his documentaries, including "The Titanic" and "The Sea Around Us". He died in 1946 at the age of 58.
Ernie Cameron was a key player for St Mary's in the Victorian Football League (VFL). He played 114 games for the club, scoring 55 goals.
Ernie Cameron was one of the most consistent players in the VFL during the 1910s and 1920s. He was a powerful and effective forward who was known for his strong marking and ball-winning skills.
Ernie Cameron represented Victoria at interstate football a number of times, including four games for the interstate team in 1924.
Ernie Cameron died in 1984 at the age of 83. He was a well-respected figure in the VFL, and is considered one of the greatest players in the league's history. Ernie Cameron was inducted into the Victorian Football Hall of Fame in 1996.
31. Howard Okey
Career
- 1928–1934: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1934.
Howard Okey was a talented player in the VFL. He played for West Melbourne Juniors from 1923 to 1928 and was a member of the 1926 and 1927 premiership teams.
Okey was a good runner and had a powerful kicking game. He was also a good mark and had a good head for the game. Okey was a good leader on and off the field.
He was captain of the West Melbourne Juniors from 1926 to 1928. Okey was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1986. Okey died in 1985 at the age of 79.
Howard Okey was a key player in Essendon's premiership-winning side of the 1930s. Okey was a powerful forward, who averaged 52 goals a season in his nine-year career with the Bombers.
He was also a handy user of the ball, averaging over 30 disposals a game. Okey was forced to retire at the age of 32 due to injury, but he remains one of the most respected and admired players in Essendon's history.
Okey was inducted into the Essendon Hall of Fame in 1987. He currently lives in Melbourne, and is involved in a range of community activities.
Okey is the father of AFL player Nick Okey. Howard Okey is one of the most colourful and iconic players in Essendon's history, and he will be greatly missed by the club and its supporters.
32. Syd Carman
Career
- 1926–1933: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1933.
Syd Carman was born on 15 December 1901 in Chewton, Victoria. Syd Carman played for Middle Park in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Syd Carman died on 16 February 1966 at the age of 64.
Syd Carman was inducted into the Victorian Football Hall of Fame in 1992. Syd Carman is remembered as one of the greats of Victorian football. Syd Carman was a renowned goalkicker in the early days of the AFL.
He played for Essendon for 13 seasons and kicked 96 goals. Syd Carman was born in Melbourne in 1926 and died in 2003. Syd Carman was a well-known and respected player in the AFL and was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1995.
Syd Carman was a versatile player and could play as a forward or as a defender. Syd Carman was a member of the Essendon team that won the premiership in 1933.
Syd Carman was an excellent marksman and was often used as a forward pocket. Syd Carman was a very popular player with his teammates and was a popular figure in the AFL.
Syd Carman was a member of the Essendon team that played in the first Grand Final in 1925. Syd Carman is remembered as one of the great goalkickers in the history of the AFL.
33. Ted Freyer
Career
- 1928–1929: Port Melbourne (VFA)
- 1929–1937: Essendon (VFL)
- 1938–1941: Port Melbourne (VFA)
- 1945: Port Melbourne (VFA)
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1945.
- Essendon Leading goalkicker: 1931, 1932, 1933, 1934, 1936, Essendon Most Servicable Player
Edward Freyer is best known for his time with Essendon, where he played 124 games and scored 372 goals. Freyer was born in Port Melbourne, Victoria in 1910 and played for Port Melbourne in the Victorian Football Association (VFA) before joining Essendon in 1929.
Freyer was a prolific goalscorer for Essendon, and in 1937 he was named the VFL's best and fairest player. Freyer retired from football in 1941 and later worked as a coach with Port Melbourne and Richmond. He died in 1984 at the age of 74.
Freyer is considered one of the greatest Australian footballers of all time and is fondly remembered by fans and players alike.
Freyer was one of the most important goalkickers in Essendon's history, amassing an impressive 835 goals in his career. Freyer also served as the team's most-servicable player in 1934 and was a semi-finalist with Port Melbourne in 1940 and 1945.
Freyer was a key member of the Essendon Grand Final side in 1940 and 1941, but he was also a part of Port Melbourne's victorious 1945 side.
Freyer ended his career with the Bombers in 1945, but he also played one final season with Port Melbourne in 1940. Freyer is considered one of the greatest Bombers of all time and is still held in high regard by the Essendon faithful.
34. Mick Madden
Career
- 1903–06: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1906.
Mick Madden was born on 21 June 1882 in Redesdale, Victoria. Madden was a professional Australian rules footballer who played with Essendon in the Victorian Football League (VFL).
Madden died on 21 September 1943 in St Kilda, Victoria. Mick Madden was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2000. Madden was a respected player and coach in the VFL.
Madden was a regular fixture in the Essendon team during the late 1920s and 1930s. Madden is considered one of the greatest Australian rules footballers of all time. Mick Madden was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
Madden is remembered for his tremendous skill and ability as a footballer. Mick Madden was born in Melbourne in 1892 and played his first senior game for Essendon in 1903. Madden played 65 games for Essendon in his first three seasons and kicked 51 goals.
In 1906, Madden joined South Melbourne and played 19 games and kicked 18 goals. Mick Madden died in 1971 at the age of 83.
Madden is remembered as one of the all-time greats of Australian football and is third on Essendon's list of career goalscorers. Madden is a member of the Essendon Hall of Fame.
Madden is also a member of the South Melbourne Hall of Fame. Madden's grandson, Cale Hooker, is also a professional footballer. Madden is the only player to have played for both Essendon and South Melbourne.
35. Frank McDonald
Career
- 1919–1921: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1921.
Frank McDonald was a footballer who played for Footscray (VFA) in the Victorian Football League (VFL).
McDonald was known for his powerful running skills, which helped him become one of the league's most prolific goal-scorers.
He also played for Victoria in the interstate competition, winning a premiership with the state side in 1934. McDonald died in 1962 at the age of 62 after a long illness. He was honoured with a state funeral and was later cremated.
McDonald is remembered as one of the league's most iconic players and is a member of the Victorian Football Hall of Fame. Frank McDonald was a prolific full-forward for Essendon in the early 1920s, scoring 56 goals in 28 games.
McDonald was one of the leading players of his era, and was a key member of Essendon's successful premiership campaign in 1921.
McDonald retired from playing in 1921, and later served as coach of the Victorian Football League's North Melbourne Football Club. McDonald is one of the most famous players in Essendon's history, and is counted among the club's all-time greats.
McDonald is currently the president of the Essendon Football Club. McDonald is a member of the AFL Hall of Fame and the Essendon Football Club's Hall of Legends.
McDonald was born in 1897 and died in 1990. McDonald is one of the most significant figures in Australian football history, and his legacy will be long remembered.
36. Norm Hall
Career
- 1913–1914, 1918: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1918.
Norm Hall was born in 1894 in Oakleigh, Victoria. Norm Hall was a player for Melbourne Grammar during the 1920s.
Norm Hall was a member of the Australian national team and competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
Norm Hall died in 1974 in Rosebud, Victoria. Norm Hall was a talented footballer and was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1978. Norm Hall was a key player for Melbourne Grammar during the 1920s and was a member of the premiership team in 1926.
Norm Hall was a talented and influential footballer and was a major figure in Australian football. Norm Hall was a highly respected and respected figure in the sport of Australian football and was affectionately known as 'The Mayor of Football'.
Norm Hall was a highly respected and respected figure in the sport of Australian football and was affectionately known as 'The Mayor of Football'.
37. George Barker
Career
- 1903–1909: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1909.
George Sanders Barker was born on September 26th, 1885 in Collingwood, Victoria.
He was an Australian actor and singer who is best known for his roles in films such as The Picture of Dorian Gray, The Three Musketeers, and The Four Feathers.
Barker died in 1947 at the age of 61 in Malvern East, Victoria. He was a successful actor and singer who was known for his roles in films such as The Picture of Dorian Gray, The Three Musketeers, and The Four Feathers.
Barker is considered to be one of the most influential Australian actors of the 20th century.
He was inducted into the Australian Film Institute's Hall of Fame in 1997. George Sanders Barker was born on September 26th, 1885 in Collingwood, Victoria. He passed away in 1947 at the age of 61 in Malvern East, Victoria.
George Sanders Barker is considered to be one of the most influential Australian actors of the 20th century. He was inducted into the Australian Film Institute's Hall of Fame in 1997.
38. Gordon Lane
Career
- 1940–1949: Essendon
- 1950–1952: South Melbourne
- 1950–1952: South Melbourne
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1952.
- Essendon premiership player 1942, 1946 & 1949, South Melbourne leading goalkicker 1950 & 1952
Gordon Lane was born on 30 May 1921 in Essendon, Victoria. He played for Essendon United in the 1940s and 1949 before retiring from the game. Gordon Lane died on 21 July 1973 at the age of 52.
He is best remembered for his 256 goals for Essendon United. Gordon Lane was a member of the Essendon Football Club Hall of Fame and the Essendon Cricket Club Hall of Fame.
Gordon Lane was a talented goalkicker who won three premierships with South Melbourne.
Lane was a part of the Essendon side that won the 1942, 1946 and 1949 premierships. He was also a leading goalkicker for South Melbourne in the 1950s, kicking 94 goals in 47 games.
Lane later coached South Melbourne and enjoyed success there as well. He passed away in 2002 at the age of 82.
Lane is remembered as one of the all-time great goalkickers and a key figure in Australian football history. His impressive career highlights include three premierships with Essendon and leading goalkicker honours with South Melbourne.
39. Billy Griffith
Career
- 1899–1913: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1913.
- 3× VFL premiership player: 1901, 1911, 1912, Essendon captain
Billy Griffith was a key player for Essendon District in the early 1900s. Griffith was a powerful and consistent midfielder, and was a major contributor to the club's success.
He played in a total of 143 games for the Essendon District, and was a premiership player in 1906. Griffith later went on to play for Melbourne, Fitzroy and Geelong, and was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1954.
Griffith was a popular and respected figure in the sport, and is remembered as one of the great Essendon players of the early 1900s.
Billy Griffith was one of the greatest forwards in VFL/AFL history. Griffith was a three-time premiership player with Essendon and captained the club in 1907-09.
He was also a member of the Australian Team of the Century. Griffith is now considered one of the greatest ever Essendon players. He retired in 1913 after playing 187 games for the club. Billy Griffith is a legend in Australian football and is still highly regarded by fans today.
40. Bill Robinson
Career
- 1901–02, 1904–06: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1906.
- VFL premiership player: 1901, Essendon captain
Bill Robinson was born on 5 August 1880 in Brighton, Victoria. After playing for Brighton Jrs and Footscray (VFA), Robinson moved to Perth, Western Australia in 1922.
Robinson played with Perth in the West Australian Football League (WAFL) until his retirement in 1932. Robinson was a member of the Australian national team and played at the 1908 and 1912 Olympic Games.
Robinson died on 2 February 1967 in Perth, Western Australia. Robinson was a key figure in Essendon's premiership success in the early 1900s. He was captain of the club in 1905 and helped lead them to their first VFL title.
Robinson was also a talented player and was a regular member of the Essendon side throughout the 1900s. He retired from football in 1906 but continued to play cricket for Essendon. Robinson is now considered one of the greatest players in Essendon's history.
He is a member of the Essendon Hall of Fame and has been honoured with a number of awards. Robinson is also remembered for his work with the Essendon Football Club Foundation.
He is a popular figure in the Essendon community and is often seen at home games. Robinson is a true legend of Australian football and is highly respected by his peers.
41. Jobe Watson
Career
- 2003–2017: Essendon
- Essendon captain: 2010–2016, 2× All-Australian team
Jobe Watson is an Australian professional footballer who plays for Essendon in the Australian Football League (AFL). Watson was born in Melbourne, Victoria, in 1985.
Watson played his junior football for the Sandringham Dragons in the TAC Cup.
Watson was selected with the 40th pick in the 2002 national draft by Essendon. Watson made his AFL debut in 2003, playing for the Essendon Bombers.
Watson played for Essendon for nine seasons before he was traded to the Adelaide Crows in 2018. Watson has won two Premierships with Essendon, in 2007 and 2013. Watson has played in the AFL All-Australian Team and was awarded the Norm Smith Medal in 2013.
In 2018, Watson was traded to the Adelaide Crows. Watson was one of the most successful AFL players of all time, winning two All Australian Medals, three Crichton Medals and captaining Essendon to two premierships.
Watson retired from the AFL in 2017 after 22 seasons and 220 games.
Watson is a two-time Essendon best and fairest winner and was also the AFLPA best captain in 2012. Watson represented Australia in one international game in 2014.
Watson is currently an ambassador for the AFL and Essendon. Watson is married to former Australian cricketer and TV personality Moira Dyson.
Watson has two children. Watson is a keen golfer and has won numerous tournaments. Watson is currently a commentator for AFL games on Fox Sports.
42. Kyle Langford
Career
- 2015–: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 2021.
- Essendon best clubman: 2020, 2021
Kyle Langford was born on 1 December 1996 in Melbourne, Victoria.
Langford played for the Northern Knights in the TAC Cup before being drafted by the Melbourne Demons in the 2014 national draft.
Langford made his debut for Melbourne in the 2014 AFL season and played in 21 games. Langford was traded to the Brisbane Lions in the 2017 AFL season and played in 21 games.
Langford was traded to the St Kilda Saints in the 2019 AFL season and has played in 10 games.
Langford has represented Victoria at both under-16 and under-18 levels. Langford is a midfielder / forward and is considered to be a prolific goal kicker.
Langford is contracted to St Kilda until the end of the 2020 AFL season. Langford is a dual citizen of Australia and the United States.
Kyle Langford is a talented young footballer who has enjoyed a successful playing career with Essendon.
He has been a fixture in the Essendon side over the past few seasons, and has been a key player in the club's successful campaigns.
Kyle Langford is a hard working player who is always looking to get the best out of himself and his team.
He is a versatile player who is capable of playing in a number of positions on the field. Kyle Langford is a future leader of the Essendon club, and is set to continue his impressive playing career in the future.
Kyle Langford is a popular player with his teammates and fans, and is someone who is always willing to give his all on the field.
Kyle Langford is a talented player who is set to continue his success in the future. Kyle Langford is a hard working player who is always looking to improve his game. Kyle Langford is a talented player who is destined for big things in the future.
43. Hugh Mitchell
Career
- 1953–1967: Essendon
- 1970–1973: Dandenong
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1967.
- Essendon best and fairest 1959, Equal third, 1959 Brownlow Medal (14 votes), Victorian state team: 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962 (13 goals), Essendon vice-captain
Hugh Mitchell was one of the most prolific goal-scorers in Essendon's history, amassing 306 goals in 228 games. After leaving Essendon in 1967, Mitchell spent two years as coach of Dandenong.
He led the club to 79 wins from 79 games. Mitchell later served as coach of the West Coast Eagles for two seasons, before retiring in 1973. Hugh Mitchell is a highly respected figure in football, and is often mentioned as one of the greatest goal-scorers of all time.
Mitchell is currently a coach with the Essendon VFL team. Hugh Mitchell was one of the most successful players in the history of the Essendon Football Club, playing a total of 213 games and kicking 306 goals.
He was a three-time premiership player and also won the Brownlow Medal twice.
Mitchell was a strong and powerful player who was a key member of the Essendon team that won three premierships in a row in the early 1960s.
He was also a member of the Victorian state side and was a regular in the Essendon side throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. Mitchell retired from playing in 1977 but continued to be involved in the club as a coach and senior administrator.
He served as Essendon's president from 1988 to 1995 and is still a significant figure at the club. Mitchell is a life member of the Essendon Football Club and was awarded the Australian Sports Medal in 2001. He is also a member of the Dandenong Team of the Century.
44. Ron Evans
Career
- 1958–1962: Essendon
- 1963–1965: West Perth
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1965.
- VFL Leading Goalkicker: 1959 (78 goals), 1960 (67 goals), 10 goals in one match (1960), 9 goals in one match (1959 twice), 8 goals in one match (1960), 7 goals in one match (1958), 6 goals in one match (1959 twice, 1960), Victorian Interstate team
Ron Evans was one of the most highly regarded and respected players of his era, winner of many prestigious awards. Evans made his debut for Essendon in 1958, and was a key member of the side that won the 1963 premiership.
After retiring from playing, Evans became a highly successful coach, leading West Perth to the WAFL premiership in 1987. Evans died in 2007, at the age of 67. Ron Evans is the leading goalkicker of the VFL and is one of the most successful players in the history of the competition.
He is the only player to have kicked over 800 goals in the VFL and WANFL, and is the all-time leading goalkicker in the VFL.
He played for North Melbourne for 18 years, and was captain of the club for eight of those years. He is a three-time premiership player with North Melbourne, and was also a part of the team that won the premiership in 1993.
He has also played for Victoria in interstate cricket, and has been a regular member of the Australian team over the past few years. Evans is currently the coach of the North Melbourne under-18s side.
45. Harry Hunter
Career
- 1921–27, 1929: Essendon
- 1939: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1929.
Harry Hunter was a full-back who played with Footscray in the Victorian Football Association (VFA). He was born in 1902 and died in 1971. Hunter was 184 cm tall and weighed 85 kg.
He was a powerful player who was known for his long kicks. Hunter was a member of the Australian national team and played in the 1924 Olympics. He was a member of the Footscray side that won the 1932 VFA premiership.
Hunter was a member of the Victorian team that played in the 1947 Australian National Football Championships. He is regarded as one of the best full-backs in VFA history. Hunter was inducted into the Victorian Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
Hunter was a prolific goal scorer during his playing career, amassing 109 goals in just over a decade with Essendon. After retiring as a player, Hunter embarked on a successful coaching career, guiding Essendon to two consecutive premierships.
Hunter is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Essendon's history, and he is fondly remembered by the club's fans.
46. Jordan Ridley
Career
- 2017–: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of Finals Week 1 2021.
- W.S. Crichton Medal: 2020, 2x 22under22 team
Jordan Ridley was drafted by Essendon in the 2016 national draft, and made his debut in Round 9 of the 2018 season. He has since become a regular in the club's defence.
Jordan Ridley was born in 1998 and is 24 years old. He played for Oakleigh Chargers in the TAC Cup before moving to East Burwood Football Club in the Victorian Football League.
Jordan Ridley is 6'5" and weighs 205 pounds. He is a defender and has played for Essendon since 2018. Jordan Ridley is a forward who has played for Essendon since 2017. He has scored 68 goals in 68 games for the club.
He won the W.S. Crichton Medal in 2020 and was a member of the 22under22 team in both 2020 and 2021. Jordan Ridley is a talented player who is sure to contribute to Essendon’s success in the future.
47. Darcy Parish
Career
- 2016–: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of the 2022 season.
- All-Australian team: 2021, Anzac Day Medal
Darcy Parish was born on 25th July 1997 in Winchelsea, Victoria. He played football for Geelong Falcons in the TAC Cup before being drafted by Essendon in the 2015 national draft.
Parish played for the Bombers' VFL side in the 2018 season. He is a midfielder and stands at 180 cm (5 ft 11 in). Parish has played 25 games for Essendon, including 18 in the 2018 season.
Parish is a hard-working and versatile player who can play anywhere in the midfield. He has a good combination of speed, power and skill. Parish is a good team player who is always willing to work for the team.
Parish is a promising young player who is looking to further his career in the AFL. Darcy Parish is a midfielder who has played for Essendon since 2016. Parish has been a regular in Essendon's midfield over the past two seasons, and has played 132 games for the club.
Parish has been a part of the Essendon side that has won the AFL Rising Star Award in 2016 and the Tom Wills Medal in 2021.
Parish is an all-Australian player, and was named in the 2021 Australian All-Australian team. Parish is a hard-working midfielder who is always looking to take on the opposition. Parish is a strong ball-winner, and is considered to be one of Essendon's key players.
48. Noel Allanson
Career
- 1947–1951: Essendon (VFL)
- 1951–1952: Williamstone (VFA)
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1951.
- • Essendon First XVIII Grand-Final Team 1947, • Essendon First XVIII Premiership Team 1950
- Competition: FC, Matches
- Competition: FC
- Matches: 1
- Runs scored: 24
- Batting average: 24.00
- 100s/50s: 0/0
- Top score: 24
Noel Allanson was born in 1925 in North Carlton, Victoria. He played for North Essendon in the VFL from 1947 to 1951, scoring 57 goals in 57 games. He then played for Williamstone in the VFA from 1951 to 1952, scoring 28 goals in 28 games.
He retired from playing in 1952. Noel Allanson died on 7 February 2022 at the age of 96. He was awarded a life membership of North Essendon in 1950.
He is recognised as one of the greatest players of Australian rules football history. Noel Allanson is best known for his cricketing career, during which he played for Victoria.
He made his debut in 1956 and played until 1957. He scored a total of 153 runs in his only match. Noel Allanson also played Australian football in his youth, but he is best known for cricket.
He passed away in 2009 at the age of 80. Noel Allanson is remembered as an excellent cricketer and a talented footballer. He was a very popular player during his time and is still remembered by many people today.
He is a very popular figure in cricket and will be remembered for years to come. Noel Allanson was a very talented cricketer and footballer and will be remembered for many years to come.
49. Frank Asling
Career
- 1934: Collingwood
- 1935: Essendon
- 1936: Hawthorn
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1936.
Leslie Frank Asling was born on 7 March 1912 in Berwick, Victoria and died 16 August 1990 in Narre Warren, Victoria. Asling played for Belgrave in the Victorian Football League (VFL) from 1932 to 1940.
Asling was a key player for Belgrave in their 1938 and 1939 premiership victories. Asling was also a member of the Victorian interstate side that won the 1938 carnival. Asling was inducted into the Victorian Football Hall of Fame in 1988.
Asling was a long-serving coach at Essendon and represented Victoria at interstate football. Asling is regarded as one of Victoria's greatest footballers.
Asling is the father of former Melbourne and St Kilda player, Ian Asling. Asling is a member of Essendon's Hall of Fame.
Frank Asling was a prolific goal scorer during his playing career, with 14 goals in total. Frank Asling was a key player for the Collingwood Football Club, and was one of the club's most successful forwards during the 1930s.
Frank Asling also spent time with the Essendon Football Club during the 1930s, and was one of the club's most consistent players.
Frank Asling retired from playing football in 1936, and later went on to have a successful career in coaching. Frank Asling was a hard-working player who was well-respected by his teammates and opponents alike.
Frank Asling is a key figure in Australian football history, and his achievements will be remembered long into the future. Frank Asling is a highly-respected figure in the Australian football community, and his contributions to the game are invaluable.
50. Jim Alexander
Career
- 1918–19: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1919.
Jim Alexander was born on March 15, 1899 in Essendon, Victoria. He died on December 2, 1972 in Dandenong, Victoria. Jim Alexander was a farmer and was a long-serving member of the local council.
Jim Alexander was a decorated veteran of World War I and World War II. Jim Alexander was a member of the Australian Labour Party. Jim Alexander was a recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia.
Jim Alexander was inducted into the Australian National Academy of Sciences in 1965. Jim Alexander was a Fellow of the Royal Australian Institute of Agricultural Science.
Jim Alexander was the author of many books, including "The Cattle Kings" and "The Men of the Murray".
Jim Alexander is considered one of the pioneers of Australian agricultural science. Jim Alexander was a key player for Essendon during their time in the Victorian Football League (VFL).
He played five games for the club, scoring one goal. Alexander was drafted by Essendon in the 1918 AFL Draft.
He made his debut for the Bombers in the opening round of the 1918 VFL season. Alexander played for Essendon until the end of the 1919 season.
He then moved to Geelong and played for the Cats until the end of the 1921 season. Alexander then moved to South Melbourne and played for the club until the end of the 1926 season.
Alexander then moved to Melbourne and played for the club until the end of the 1929 season. Alexander then retired from the sport.
Alexander was a key player for Essendon during their time in the Victorian Football League (VFL). He played five games for the club, scoring one goal.
51. Johnny Allan
Career
- 1913: Essendon
- 1 Playing statistics correct to the end of 1913.
Johnny Allan was born on 2 August 1888 in Albury, New South Wales. He died on 4 September 1937 in Prahran, Victoria at the age of 49.
Allan was an Australian rules footballer who played with Richmond and Geelong in the Victorian Football League (VFL).
Allan was a member of the Australian national football team which competed in the 1912 Olympic Games in Stockholm. Allan was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1996.
Allan is commemorated with a street in Albury named after him. Allan was the son of an Irish father and an Australian mother.
Allan attended Geelong Grammar School and the University of Melbourne where he studied medicine. Allan practised medicine in Victoria before becoming a schoolteacher.
Allan was originally a forward for Hawthorn, but he eventually became the team's full-back, where he remained for the majority of his career. Allan was a consistent goal scorer, and he helped the Hawks to two premierships.
Allan retired from the AFL in 1938, but he continued to play in the Victorian Football League until 1949. Allan was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1998.
Allan is one of Hawthorn's most famous players, and he is affectionately known as "The Captain of the Hawthorn Team". Allan was born in Melbourne in 1892, and he died in 1974.
Final Words
The Essendon Football Club is one of Australia’s oldest and most successful professional Australian football clubs. The club has a long and successful history, with some of its most famous players including Allan Jeans, Des Fothergill, Ron Barassi, Kevin Sheedy and Matthew Lloyd.
The club has produced some of the country’s foremost footballers, and is currently competing in the AFL premiership competition.
