Need something to fire you up today? Watch this video we have produced about the 1981 premiership. Should get the hairs on the back of your neck standing up.

Don’t forget our 1981 Premiership Luncheon coming up on the 25th of August where we can all relive the ‘Glory Days’.

TO SECURE YOUR SEAT TO THIS SPECIAL EVENT DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION FORM NOW!

David “Swan” Mc Kay has kindly provided a picture from his private collection which shows an earlier reunion of the 1981 premiership team. This picture was taken at David Parkin’s residence five years after the 1981 flag. Many familiar faces are there, quite a few still playing for the Blues in that year. Can you spot the extras in the photo? Both players and non-players? Leave your answers in the comment section below this article.

You will see this team on the 25th of August as well when the 1981 premiership team gather with the Carlton faithful to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their magnificent victory over the magpies.

TO SECURE YOUR SEAT TO THIS SPECIAL EVENT DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION FORM NOW!

Today marks the 90th anniversary of a remarkable individual record for the Carlton Football Club. On this day in 1921 against St Kilda, Carlton centre half forward Horrie Clover kicked 13 goals in what is still to this day the single best individual goalkicking acheivement from a Carlton player in the history of the club.

The fact that it happened in 1921, a time when goals were much more scarce than today makes it even more incredible.

Horrie Clover was a champion of our club who played 147 game and kicked an amazing 397 goals mainly as a centre half forward. Sadly he never tasted premiership success playing in our team from 1920 to 1931.

This from the Blueseum:

From Maryborough in central Victoria, Horrie enlisted in the 1st AIF in September 1915. After basic training, he embarked for France with reinforcements for the 7th Battalion in January of 1916. Soon pitched into the horrors of trench warfare, he fought and survived until September of that year, when he was transferred to a machine gun company and promoted to the rank of Corporal.

On Christmas day, 1916, Horrie was struck down with acute appendicitis. He was evacuated to a field hospital for emergency surgery, where the doctors discovered that his appendix was gangrenous and that his life was in danger. He was immediately transferred to London for specialist treatment, and months of recuperation. Pronounced unfit for further front-line service, he was repatriated back to Australia in August 1917, and honourably discharged in May of the following year – six months before the Armistice.

Having recovered, and keen to have a crack at senior football, Clover trained with Richmond and Melbourne before Carlton gave him an opportunity at VFL level. And how he delivered! In his first match in 1920 – ironically, against Richmond – he kicked four goals from centre half-forward, and hit the post three times! By the end of his first season at Princes Park, Clover was one of Carlton’s drawcards. Former Australian Prime Minister Sir Robert Menzies was just one of the many Carlton fans who were captivated; “he was the most artistic of high marks, unforgettable at half-forward,” said Menzies.

Horrie could kick a football, too. A balanced, deceptively quick mover, he was a glorious running drop-kick for goal. Playing against Richmond again at Princes Park in July, 1921, he let fly with a monster kick that was later measured at 86.26 metres – that’s 94 yards, 2 feet in imperial terms! And there are numerous other instances where he roosted the ball more than 70 metres. In round 12 of 1921, he slotted 13 goals in a game against St Kilda; a club record which still stands today.

To gain further insight into the man read the wonderful article ‘A Letter From Horrie’ which outlines a heartfelt letter Horrie wrote to a fan in a time of pain.

http://www.blueseum.org/tiki-read_article.php?articleId=105

An extract:

Prior to our trip to Sydney I was not very hopeful of our team winning the Premiership simply because I did not think that our team was good enough, but later in the season I was of the opinion that our team was on the improve whilst others were losing form and thinking this years premiership might be easily won. I was very hopeful of our team succeeding, although I always had my doubts regarding a few positions in our side when the pinch came in the second round. 

Personally I played the last three games under great disabilities, but I struggled on, in the hope of recovering from my injuries whilst I continue to play.

At Hawthorn I had a nerve in the hip shattered and this prevented me training to any great extent, in act, I couldn’t run on training afternoons. I couldn’t sleep at night and certainly was not fit to play in any of our matches following our Hawthorn engagement.

I didn’t have a good nights rest for three weeks owing to the aching hip and leg similar to nemalgia and ‘the spot’ on my hip was so sore to the touch that I would hop if it was touched by a finger.

In each of the three matches I played with the hip trouble, I had it knocked and consequently it did not have a chance to mend up and in the semi final I received two hard knocks on that sore and sensitive spot before the game had been in progress five minutes and in the last quarter I fell very heavily on my ‘lame’ hip which caused me agonizing pain.

Horrie was a veteran of WWI, and served his country with distinction reaching the rank of Corporal. After fighting in the trenches in France, Horrie was struck down with acute appendicitis which became gangrenous and resulted in months in hospital and finally a discharge. Horrie was no stranger to pain.

In these circumstances you can imagine my feelings after the match. 

Carlton lost the semi-final to Richmond by just one goal. Amazingly, despite his injuries, Horrie managed to kick three goals in the game. If it were not for the injury he might have tasted that premiership success he so dearly wanted but sadly never experienced.

I was broken down physically and dejected and disappointed mentally, so much so that I couldn’t rest for days, my brain was in a whirl and my leg ached and ached.

My good wife brought me your letter on the Tuesday morning I think – which I read before rising from my bed. I think I read it two or three times. It comforted me.

Numerous eulogistic references have been made in newspapers, letters and speeches to my ability as a footballer, many of them I think, undeserved, but I value your letter more than any of them, and I will keep and treasure it as my best and most appreciative football “souvenir”.

It is enticing to speculate that the letter Horrie refers to is still a Clover family keepsake. Perhaps another mystery for the Blueseum to explore.

I have received hundreds of letters from good friends many of whom –like yourself – I have never met, and I sincerely appreciate them all and am delighted to know that my play and conduct on the field has appealed to so many football enthusiasts, but the circumstance connected with your letter together with the evident sincerity, hearty good will, and human understanding of the wise and also the many appreciative references to my ability and conduct elevate it to the highest point in my estimation.

I must apologise for wearying you so with these details but I trust that you will understand my feelings in the matter and be assured that your letter brought a ray of sunshine to a sad and disheartened footballer.

Thanking you again most sincerely.

I remain yours faithfully.

H.R. Clover.

This letter reveals an intelligent, modest and empathetic man who was obviously shattered at getting so close to the ultimate success and his body not allowing him to get there. It would be another 11 years before the Blues would once again taste the ultimate success. Not through any fault of fine men such as Horrie Clover.

This record has managed to stand proud for 90 years it may stand for many more. It is something that should be acknowledged and appreciated.

Ian Muller: 23rd July

Career: 1984-1985
Debut: Round 14, 1984 vs Richmond
920th Carlton Player
Games: 6 (Carlton), 27 (Overall)
Goals: Nil (2 goals overall)
Last game: Round 22, 1985 vs Collingwood
Guernsey No. 29
Height: 186cm
Weight: 81kg
DOB: 23 July, 1965

Wearing guernsey #29, Muller played 6 games for Carlton after debuting in Navy Blue in Season 1984. Muller was 186cm tall.

Muller would move on to St Kilda from 1987 to 1991, playing 21 games and kicking 2 goals to add to his tally. Originally from Maffra, Muller was recruited to the Blues from Scotch College.

Ian Muller was born in South Africa.

Rohan Burke: 24th July

HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY!

Career: 1981-1986
Debut: Round 17, 1981 vs Melbourne
896th Carlton Player
Games: 18
Goals: 9
Last game: Round 11, 1986 v North Melbourne
Guernsey No. 19
Height: 183cm
Weight: 75kg
DOB: 24 July, 1961

Rohan Burke was recruited from Reservoir Lakeside in 1979 as a potential half-back. He was the son of former Carlton 87-gamer, Gerald Burke, who played with the club in the 1950s.

Wearing number 19, the 183cm defender played 18 games and kicked 9 goals for the Blues after debuting in 1981.

He was just looking to cement a spot as a tough in an under player in the mid-field when struck down by a knee injury he struggled for regular games after that. Burke was cleared to Richmond for the start of the 1987 season.

The excitement builds as there are are now just five weeks to go to our big event of 2011, the 1981 Premiership Reunion Luncheon. The 1981 Premiership team will be in attendance reliving all the magic moments of the day. Some of the best auction items we have ever had will be available on the day as well, this is not one to be missed.

To book your table or seat simply download and fill in our application form which can be DOWNLOADED BY CLICKING HERE.

We can confirm that DAVID PARKIN will be one of the keynote speakers. It will be fascinating to hear David’s recollections of that great day when the Blues defeated the Magpies on a sodden MCG.

Date: THURSDAY 25th August 2011
Time: 12:00pm
Dress: Lounge Suit
Venue: Victory Room at Etihad Stadium
Cost: $175 (all inclusive)
RSVP By: 29th July 2011

Robert Walls

Career : 1967 – 1978
Debut : Round 2, 1967 vs Hawthorn, aged 16 years, 275 days
Carlton Player No. 795
Games: 218 (Overall 259)
Goals: 367 (Overall 444)
Last Game : Round 5, 1978 vs South Melbourne, aged 27 years, 282 days
Guernsey No. 42
Height: 193 cm
Weight: 89 kg
DOB: 21 July, 1950
Premiership Player: 1968, 1970, 1972
Judged Best on Ground: 1972 Grand Final
Captain: 1977, 1978
Leading Goalkicker: 1975, 1976
Carlton Hall of Fame
Team of the Century
AFL Hall of Fame
Carlton Legend

He was just sixteen years old when he played his first game for Carlton, and goaled with his first kick. Eleven seasons later, Robert Walls moved on from Princes Park as one of the greats of a fabulous era. A three-time Premiership player in 218 games, he notched 367 career goals, was vice-captain for five seasons, and captain for two. Late in his career, he crossed to Fitzroy to lead them into finals contention, before returning to Princes Park and further glory when he coached the Blues to the 1987 Premiership.

‘Wallsie’ was invited to Carlton in the summer of 1966, soon after being spotted playing good football for Coburg Amateurs. Born in Dunolly, but at that time he was still a student at Coburg High School; a tall, gangly teenager with long arms and a passion for excellence in everything he did – especially football. His arrival at Carlton came only months after new captain-coach Ron Barassi, and the pair found common ground immediately. Barassi commented later that Walls was a coach’s dream, probably because from day one, he embraced the Barassi philosophy that says ‘the harder you work, the luckier you get.’

Wearing guernsey 42, Walls took to the field his first senior game in 1967 against Fitzroy at Princes Park. Early in that match he marked strongly at full-forward, then calmly slotted the goal with his first kick. By the end of that debut season however, he was playing in defence, mainly because his immature frame was being too easily knocked out of marking contests. In a quality team, with the support of star defenders like Wes Lofts, John Goold and Ian Collins, Rob learned quickly. Weighing in at around 190 cm and 85 kg, he claimed a regular place in a back pocket, where his strong marking, judgement and pace off the mark proved real assets. Later, he would grow to 193 cm and fill out to 89 kg.

Topping off an exemplary first season, Walls was a solid performer in both of Carlton’s finals matches that year. The Blues wound up the 1967 home and away rounds second on the ladder, behind Richmond. It was Carlton’s first finals campaign for five years, and inexperience was a factor in their quick exit after successive losses to the Tigers and Geelong. Twelve months later however, when the ’68 finals began with Carlton again sitting second – this time behind Essendon – the Blues were a physically stronger, better team. Before 116,828 spectators on a windswept MCG, Carlton went on to beat Essendon by 3 points in a dour, slogging Grand Final. Walls kept Essendon’s resting ruckmen under control all match, and accepted his first Premiership medal at just 18 years of age.

Tony Southcombe

Career: 1977
Debut: Round 1, 1977 vs Geelong
Carlton Player No. 862
Games: 13
Goals: 11
Guernsey No. 4
Last Game: Round 13, 1977 vs Fitzroy
Height: 188cm
Weight: 89kg
DOB: 21 July, 1950

Tony Southcombe was another product from the Carlton nursery being Golden Square within the Bendigo League. Southcombe won the Bendigo FL Best & Fairest in 1971, the Mickelson Medal. Wearing guernsey #4, Southcombe played 13 games for Carlton commencing in 1977 kicking 11 goals in his time in Navy Blue.

One of the rare footballers to play with spectacles, Southcombe never really settled into city life and went back to the country before the season’s end. He had played the first 13 games straight and had enough of the big smoke.

Thanks to the Blueseum for player bios and pictures.

The Blues face a huge test in front of a jam packed MCG against the reigning premiers today. This is not the only big test Carlton has faced on this date, including a recent clash with Collingwood where the Blues triumphed.

Round 16, 1977

Renato Serafini, in his debut for the Blues after crossing from Fitzroy, kicked a late goal to help the Blues win.

Carlton put another temporary stop to South’s hopes of making the Final Five when reserve Renato Serafini kicked a goal at the 22 minute mark and shepherded for Rod Ashman to do likewise minutes later. Prior to this, the Swans had grabbed the lead after trailing early in the game, which would rank with one of the worst of the season in the Lakeside Oval mud. The Blues late run and win gave them their sixth in a row against South. – Football Record.

Round 16, 1988

Steal of the Round
Carlton’s Stephen Silvagni is caught out of position as Geelong’s Michael Turner taps a short pass across to teammate Bruce Lindner. But somehow Silvagni, who is travelling in the same direction as the ball manages to intercept and clear for the Blues as a bewildered Lindner looks on……. – Inside Football.

Ray Byrne: 16th July

Career : 1973 – 1978
Debut : Round 2, 1973 vs North Melbourne, aged 19 years, 272 days
Carlton Player No. 837
Games : 81
Goals : 13
Guernsey No. 26
Last Game: Round 6, 1978 vs Hawthorn, aged 24 years, 294 days
Height : 181 cm (5 ft. 11 in.)
Weight : 79.5 kg (12 stone, 7 lbs.)
DOB : 16 July, 1953

Ray Byrne will be remembered as one of the most unfortunate players in the history of VFL/AFL football. A capable and courageous defender, he turned out for two clubs in four Grand Finals – only to be on the losing side in each one of them.

In 1972, Byrne was recruited by the Blues at the age of 19 from Golden Square, in Carlton’s rich Bendigo League zone. He was given guernsey number 26 and soon proved to be a popular clubman and a creative half-back. At 181 cm and 80 kg, he was equally at home on the last line of defence, where he played in Carlton’s 1973 Grand Final loss to Richmond. The Blues went down by five goals that day, but Byrne’s opponent; Noel Carter, was hardly sighted.

Although his endeavour rarely faltered, by 1978 Byrne’s opportunities were drying up – due mainly to the emergence of future stars like Peter McConville, Rod Austin and Wayne Harmes. That same year there was an upheaval at the club with coach Ian Stewart resigning because of poor health, and then Serge Silvagni and later Alex Jesaulenko taking turns as senior coach. It was around that time that the Blues offloaded Byrne’s good mate Robert Walls, to Fitzroy – so Byrne decided that he too wanted out.

As he put it, “I didn’t like the scene at the time, and up until the Wednesday before clearances closed they weren’t going to let me go. And then at the last minute, the Blues got a deal they wanted. They gave permission for me to go to Collingwood on the proviso that they got a form four”. (A form four was required for every player recruited to a VFL club). Byrne wasn’t keen to go to Collingwood – he actually wanted to join Melbourne – but at the last minute he was off to Victoria Park. Incidentally, the Blues recruited Robbert Klomp with the form four they received in exchange from the Magpies.

Peter Fitzpatrick: 17th July

Career : 1978 – 1980
Debut : Round 3, 1978 v Melbourne
874th Carlton Player
Games : 9
Goals : 4
Last game : Round 7, 1980 v Hawthorn
Guernsey No. 6
Height : 184cm
Weight : 87kg
DOB : 17 July 1959

No relation to Mike Fitzpatrick (although their careers at Carlton coincided) Peter Fitzpatrick joined the Blues from Golden Square in 1978. He showed glimpses of real ability in his nine senior games, but found the going tough when he was forced to compete for a place in the team against the likes of Jim Buckley, Wayne Harmes, Peter McConville and Barry Armstrong.

Later, Fitzpatrick bobbed up at St Kilda in 1980. He managed another four games for the Saints, then moved on to SANFL club Woodville for the 1981 season. In 1982 he move back to Victoria and played for VFA club Sandringham in which he would later captain in 1987 and 1988, he was also a member of their 1985 premiership team. In 1989, he transferred to arch-rival VFA club Port Melbourne after a falling out with Sandringham coach and ex Hawk Bob Keddie.

Andy Graham: 18th July

Career: 1983
Debut and only Game: Round 15, 1983 vs Melbourne
912th Carlton Player
Goals: Nil
Guernsey No. 46
Height: 180cm
Weight: 76kg
DOB: 18 July, 1963

Wearing guernsey #46 and listed at 180cm in height, Graham played a single game for Carlton in Season 1983 which was a loss to Melbourne at Princes Park. In this game, Graham shared his debut with Ricky Nixon. He was recruited from Coburg.

Darren Hulme: 19th July

Career: 1997-2004
Debut: Round 10, 1997 vs Port Adelaide
1018th Carlton Player
Games: 110
Goals: 56
Last Game: Round 9, 2004 vs Western Bulldogs
Guernsey No. 47 (1997), 27 (1998-2004)
Height: 175cm
Weight: 80kg
DOB: 19 July, 1977
AFL Rising Star Nominee: Round 10, 1998

Taken with Pick 8 in the 1997 Pre-Season Draft from Dandenong Stingrays U/18’s (originally from Frankston Bombers), Darren Hulme was a feisty 175 cm midfielder who played over 100 games with the Blues. “Pup”, who wore a tattoo on his left shoulder, became a regular with the Blues from late 1997 until 2003, other than some occasional soft tissue injuries and a serious knee injury in Round 5, 2002, which would keep him sidelined for the remainder of that season. He would return to being a regular in the side in 2003, playing 20 games (missing 2 due to injury). But after playing 7 of the first 9 games in 2004, he would miss the remainder of that season with a groin injury and then be delisted.

He would generally alternate on the ball with short stints in the forward line. He would earn an AFL Rising Star Nomination in 1998. One of Hulme’s most memorable games was Round 9, 2001, when he would inspire a Blues’ revival. He would take on two Roos players, yet was still able to beat them both to win the ball and force a turnover, which would result in an important goal that would change the course of the game. He would end up taking the 3 Brownlow votes that game and would record 10 for the year – the equal highest at the club.

Andy Lukas: 19th July

Career : 1970 – 1973
Debut : Round 7, 1970 vs South Melbourne, aged 19 years, 301 days
Carlton Player No. 820
Games : 34
Goals : 3
Last Game : Round 10, 1973 vs Footscray, aged 22 years, 325 days
Guernsey No. 7 and 49
Height : 178 cm (5 ft. 10 in.)
Weight : 71.3 kg (11 stone, 3 lbs.)
DOB : 19 July, 1950
Premiership Player: 1972

Wearing guernsey number 49, and later number 7, Lukas played 34 games for Carlton after first running out in Navy Blue in Season 1970. He kicked three career goals.

Andy was born on July 19, 1950 and was recruited from St Marks and then Fawkner. He worked his way through to senior selection from Carlton’s Under 19 squad. He was listed as 5′ 10″ (178cm) and 11.3 (71.3kg). He made his senior team debut on the bench as 20th man against South Melbourne at the Lake Oval, Albert Park in Round 7, 1970, when Carlton were defeated by 77 points.

Andy played two more senior games during 1970, eight in 1971 and twenty-two during 1972 – including the Premiership. However he managed only two senior games in 1973, including his last senior appearance in Round 10, 1973 at Waverley, when Carlton beat Footscray by 26 points. In all, 16 of his 34 Carlton senior games were played off the bench (including the 1972 Premiership, where he was 19th man).

Before the start of the 1971 season, Andy changed his name to Lukas from Lukimitis (Lukas was born in Australia of Latvian parents). The popular belief at the time was that the change was to help “Captain Blood” Jack Dyer in his commentary. He was one of the two Carlton players to change their names that year, the other being Gary Lawson-Smith who changed his name from Smith. This story is explored in detail here.

Thanks to the Blueseum for player pics and bios.

There are just six weeks to go to our big event of 2011, the 1981 Premiership Reunion Luncheon.

To book your table or seat simply download and fill in our application form which can be DOWNLOADED BY CLICKING HERE.

We can confirm that DAVID PARKIN will be one of the keynote speakers. It will be fascinating to hear David’s recollections of that great day when the Blues defeated the Magpies on a sodden MCG.

Date: THURSDAY 25th August 2011
Time: 12:00pm
Dress: Lounge Suit
Venue: Victory Room at Etihad Stadium
Cost: $175 (all inclusive)
RSVP By: 29th July 2011

Troy Bond

Career: 1994-1995
Debut: Round 1, 1994 v Adelaide
992nd Carlton Player
Games: 36
Goals: 26
Last game: Preliminary Final, 1995 v North Melbourne
Guernsey No. 8
Height: 179cm
Weight: 76kg
DOB: 14 July, 1973
AFL Rising Star Nominee: Round 18, 1994

Troy Bond was drafted with Pick 88 of the 1992 National Draft from Port Adelaide, but didn’t come over from his native South Australia for a whole season. But with his arrival came much excitement and talk of his acceleration over the first 5-10 metres. At this time in footy history the football world was agog with Gavin Wanganeen, the little Bomber back pocket player who was creating a storm with his zip and courage. Bond was a very similar player (indeed his cousin), but started off his career in the forward line.

Bond’s debut game was against the Crows in Round 1, 1994, and he kicked 3 goals in a 16 possession game that had us all excited. A few weeks later in Round 6 Bond and James Cook kicked 11 goals between them at Optus v. the Swans – all in the Crowd thought that the Blues had uncovered new forward stars who would carry our forward line for the next 10 years. From that point on, Bond was shown a lot more respect, but he still finished with 25 goals from 21 games in a great first year.

Mark Maclure

Career: 1974 – 1986
Debut: Round 13, 1974 vs Geelong
Carlton Player No. 846
Games: 243
Goals: 327
Last game: Grand Final, 1986 vs Hawthorn
Guernsey No. 36
Height: 188cm
Weight: 83kg
DOB: 14 July, 1955
Premiership Player: 1979, 1981, 1982
Club Leading Goalkicker: 1977, 1985
Victorian Representative: 1977, 1980
Club Captain: 1986
Carlton Hall of Fame: 1995

In a long and successful career with the Blues between 1974 and 1986, “Sellers” Maclure wore his number 36 guernsey in 243 games, including solid contributions in each of the 1979, 1981, and 1982 Carlton Premierships. Originally groomed as a defender, he became one of the better centre half-forwards of his era; a strong marking, hard-tackling team player who brought those around him into the game. Although sometimes prone to inconsistency, his career average of 18 games per season is a good indicator of his value to the Blues.

Early in his career, when Maclure began confirming that Carlton had unearthed another promising key position prospect, the football press of the day made much of the story that the 188 cm, 89 kg blonde forward had been recruited from the East Sydney Australian Football Club in Sydney. Portrayed as one of the trail-blazers for our code in the heartland of rugby league, Maclure was later seen as one of the standard-bearers of the AFL push into Sydney.

That claim proved to be a very cheeky one. While Maclure was in fact signed to Carlton from the Sydney club, he had actually been born in WA, and took to the game in the southern states. This came about because Mark’s father was in the Australian Navy at the time, so Mark played football wherever his family was sent. At the height of the Vietnam conflict in the early 1970’s, that meant Sydney.

Maclure began his career at Princes Park with the Under 19 squad, but progressed quickly through the Reserves team and made his senior debut in round 13 of 1974, against Geelong at Princes Park. Although Carlton dominated the match and won by 73 points, Maclure had a torrid introduction to senior football at full back. It was a spiteful affair, and players from both sides ended up on report.

Two weeks later, ‘Sellers’ was given his first opportunity at centre half-forward when Carlton played Richmond in the Match of the Day at the MCG. This time, the Tigers’ notorious knuckleman, Mal Brown, tried working him over, and Maclure was reported for retaliating. He beat the charge at a tribunal hearing, but afterward was sent back into defence, where he spent the best part of two seasons.

Andrew McKay

Career : 1993 – 2003
Debut : Round 1, 1993 vs Fitzroy, aged 22 years, 256 days
Carlton Player No. 988
Games : 244
Goals : 28
Last Game : Round 22, 2003 vs North Melbourne, aged 33 years, 48 days
Guernsey No. 5
Height : 185 cm (6 ft. 1 in.)
Weight : 89 kg (14 stone)
DOB : 14 July, 1970
Premiership Player 1995
Best and Fairest 2003
All Australian 1993, 1999, 2000, 2001
Carlton Hall 0f Fame 2001

Like many other Carlton champions, Andy McKay just seemed to go on forever. A warrior at half-back for the Blues for 11 seasons, he was resolute, reliable and most of the time, utterly impassable. His career began with a Grand Final defeat in his debut year, then soared to redemption only two seasons later. From then on, through the near-misses of 1999 and 2000, and into the looming catastrophe of the first decade of this troubled century, Andrew Ian McKay stood – and still stands – as an all-time great of the Carlton Football Club.

Carlton’s match committee knew ‘Macka’ was something special well before he was recruited from SANFL heavyweights Glenelg at pick 13 in the 1992 National Draft. (His original club was Lucindale, which is just west of Naracoorte, SA). Although he had played only 40 senior matches for the Bays, he had finished runner-up to Nathan Buckley of Port Adelaide in the ’92 Margarey Medal. The Blues were thrilled to sign him – and it only took two games to see just why.

Wearing guernsey number 5, he played across the centre in his first outing for the Blues, in round 1 of 1993 against Fitzroy at Princes Park. Carlton’s centre line on that occasion featured McKay and Fraser Brown on the wings, with Greg Williams in the pivot. All three got plenty of the football on that cloudy Saturday afternoon, although Fitzroy proved too good and won by six points.

McKay was shifted to his preferred half-back flank for his second game – the match of the round between Carlton and Essendon at the MCG – and announced his arrival as an AFL footballer with a dominant display in one of the games of the season. While the two bitter rivals fought out a high-scoring (132 points apiece) draw, Andy dominated his flank, beat two opponents, and was awarded his first Brownlow Medal vote. From that day on he was never left out of Carlton’s senior team, except for those rare occasions when he was injured.

Thanks to the Blueseum for player pics and bios.

The Blues take on the Western Bulldogs today in a must win game. This date has seen some interesting games, including one where the Blues won despite being goal-less for three quarters and game where Ross Ditchburn booted 12 goals!

Round 11, 1909

After a disastrous start to the season, when in-fighting led to 3 losses in the first 4 rounds, the Blues had won 7 in a row. They were drawn to meet the heir-apparents, South, and over 40000 were on hand to witness the clash.

Atrocious kicking for goal saw the Blues trail 0-11 to 4-4 at half-time. After adding yet another behind early in the 3rd quarter, Carlton clicked into gear and poured on 9-1 in 20 minutes, a scoring blitz without precedence.

The pretenders, it seemed, had been put in their place.

South Melbourne and Carlton were the best teams of the season, South won in round two by 17 points but Carlton reversed the result in round 11 with a brilliant barnstorming quarter. The score at half-time was Carlton 0.11 to South’s 4.4 – but the Blues put on nine goals to none in the third quarter in what one scibe called the “most marvellous exhibition of resistless attack ever seen on a Victorian football field”. – 100 Years of Australian Rules Football.

Round 16, 1982

Ross Ditchburn kicked an amazing 12 goals in this whitewash of the Saints at Waverley. Ditchburn would equal the efforts of Greg Kennedy 10 years earlier in kicking 12 for the Blues, the only two players in our history to do it. Of course, Horrie Clover went one better with 13 in 1921.

”Full forwards dominated the voting in the first half of the split 16th round. Carlton’s Ross Ditchburn slammed on 12 goals to secure his spot in the seniors (Simon Beasley also booting 12 goals). After biding his time in the Carlton reserves for several weeks, Ditchburn got his chance to prove himself recently and has performed well in the last two matches. Ditchburn received top votes because he provided a great target for his team-mates and capitalised on his opportunities. Rod Ashman also had a day out collecting a swag of possessions and being resposnible for a lot of forward thrusts and scoring opportunities. – Inside Football Player of the Year.”

Thanks to the Blueseum for game information.

Not only do we provide representation and support to past players and officials of the Carlton Football Club, we also actively support the current playing group. The Spirit of Carlton Past and Present and the Carlton Football Club have recently co-operated to enhance the recovery program for two currently injured players, Michael Jamison and Shaun Hampson. We have purchased some specialist equipment which is produced by Game Ready.

Costing almost $10k, two units have been purchased that will assist with the familiar RICE recovery regime familiar to athletes. For an explanation please read the following from the Game Ready website.

The RICE regimen (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) has been used for decades to treat acute and chronic injury and assist in post-operative rehabilitation. Many professional athletes and medical professionals choose Game Ready as a part of the RICE regimen because it uniquely combines adjustable cold and intermittent compression to deliver the two most difficult-to-manage aspects of RICE in one easy-to-use treatment system.

We hope that this equipment not only serves the current injured players well but also contributes towards future rehabilitation programs when needed by the club.

This is just another example of your contributions towards the SOC working in support of the club towards premiership number seventeen. Whenever you attend an SOC event, purchase one of our auction items or become an SOC member you are contributing towards positive outcomes for the Carlton Football Club.

Justin Davies: 7th July

Career : 2002 – 2006
Debut : Round 7, 2002 vs Essendon, aged 18 years, 307 days
Carlton Player No. 1055
Games : 41
Goals : 20
Last Game : Round 22, 2005 vs North Melbourne, aged 22 years, 52 days
Guernsey Nos. 13 (2002-04), and 7 (2005-06)
Height : 184 cm (6 ft. 1 in.)
Weight : 73 kg (11 stone, 7 lbs.)
DOB : 7 July, 1983

Selected by Carlton at pick 39 in the 2001 National Draft, Justin Davies showed glimpses of real ability throughout his four seasons at Princes Park – but lingering episodes of self-doubt, and a string of injuries at the wrong time, prevented him from realising his full potential.

Davies’ pathway to Carlton led from Shepparton East , then Shepparton United through to the Murray Bushrangers Under 18’s. He was still a few weeks short of his 19th birthday when he made his senior debut (off the interchange bench) for the Blues against Essendon in round 7, 2002 at the MCG. Seen as a potential midfield regular by the Blues, he managed six games for the year, but just couldn’t string matches together because of illness, hamstring and quadricep injuries. It was a horror season for Carlton – the worst in our proud history – and Davies’ experience was typical of our younger brigade.

Over 2004, Davies played a further 12 games, mainly up forward. Perhaps his most memorable moment came in round 7 against Collingwood, when he almost single-handedly dragged the Blues back into a game which was all but lost. He banged through three goals in six minutes during the last quarter, and Carlton snatched a team-lifting victory from the old enemy. By the end of the year, Carlton had shown real improvement in finishing 11th, and Davies was honoured by a change of guernsey number from 13 to 7 – apparently at the bequest of past great Brett Ratten.

David Kernahan: 11th July

Career: 1988–1993
Debut: Round 1, 1988 v Hawthorn
949th Carlton Player
Games: 53
Goals: 8
Last game: Round 18, 1993 v Hawthorn
Guernsey No. 28
Height: 188cm
Weight: 83kg
DOB: 11 July, 1965

The younger and smaller brother of Carlton’s immortal Stephen Kernahan, David spent six seasons at Princes Park from 1988 to 1993. He seemed destined for a good career when he kicked the match-winning goal in his first senior game against Hawthorn, and then making the top 5 in the B&F in both 1990 and 1991. Incidentally, it was in 1990 that he brought up the only Brownlow Vote of his career, with a strong game against the Swans in Round 14.

Unfortunately for David, his arrival at Carlton from Glenelg in South Australia coincided with a slump in team performance in the years following the 1987 Premiership. Originally considered as a forward, he found a niche in defence in his second year, playing a string of solid games. Then, just as he was cementing a regular place in the team, he was struck down by hamstring and groin injuries that hampered his career from that point on, taking a heavy toll on the 188 cm, 83 kg utility and restricting him to just 53 games in six seasons. He showed plenty of grit in persisting until 1993 before returning home.

Brett Ratten: 11th July

HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY TO BRETT!

Career : 1990 – 2003
Debut : Round 22, 1990 vs Fitzroy, aged 19 years, 52 days
Carlton Player No. 969
Games : 255
Goals : 117
Last Game : Round 10, 2003 vs Fremantle, aged 31 years, 324 days
Guernsey No. 7
Height : 184 cm (6 ft. 1 in.)
Weight : 88 kg (13 stone, 12 lbs.)
DOB : 11 July, 1971
Premiership Player 1995
Captain: 2002 – 2003
Best and Fairest: 1995, 1997, 2000 (tied)
All Australian: 2000, 2001
Coach: Round 17, 2007 –

The story of Brett Ratten is one of contrasts; a champion of the game and of the club, but no superstar; a back pocket who would become an inspirational centreman, and a guy who wore thick glasses off the field, yet had amazing awareness on the ground. One thing is for sure however – ‘Ratts’ was a true Blue champion, and a crowd idol over his 255-game career at Princes Park.

Wearing guernsey number 40, Ratten played his first game for the Blues against Fitzroy in round 22, 1990, and within a matter of weeks became an automatic selection for the Blues in a range of roles – chiefly as an on-baller or forward flanker. It was also in ’91 when he switched to number 7 and proved more than worthy of the honour.

In 1992 the much-heralded arrival of champion centreman Greg Williams from Sydney pushed “Ratts” deep into defence, where he rose to the challenge of taking on the flighty forward pockets of the day. A game against Darren Kowal of the Demons sticks in the mind. But perhaps it was this time in defence that made the man. Ratten was promoted to the midfield over the 1994 and ’95 seasons, and was outstanding in our crushing 1995 Grand Final win over Geelong.

Thanks to the Blueseum for player pictures and bios.

There are just seven weeks to go to our big event of 2011, the 1981 Premiership Reunion Luncheon.

To book your table or seat simply download and fill in our application form which can be DOWNLOADED BY CLICKING HERE.

We can confirm that DAVID PARKIN will be one of the keynote speakers. It will be fascinating to hear David’s recollections of that great day when the Blues defeated the Magpies on a sodden MCG.

Date: THURSDAY 25th August 2011
Time: 12:00pm
Dress: Lounge Suit
Venue: Victory Room at Etihad Stadium
Cost: $175 (all inclusive)
RSVP By: 29th July 2011

The Blues had a mighty good day today beating the Tigers by 103 points in perfect conditions. The record margin of 115 points was in danger today. However it would have been a tragedy if the record was beaten today because we managed to beat Richmond just four years after their last premiership in appalling conditions in round 14 of 1984 by a record margin. This was a truly spectacular win in the wet and should be acknowledged.

After a loss last week the Blues will be keen to bounce back against the Tigers this week in a big game at the MCG. With West Coast in good form Carlton needs to keep winning to ensure a top four position on the AFL ladder. Today we look at some of the other games the Blues have played on this date: the 2nd of July.

Round 10, 1910

Round 9, 1921

In this top-of-the-table clash, the Blues easily beat the Magpies and claimed outright ladder leadership.

This  match is remembered for its tragic aftermath, when star Carlton rover Lyle Downs collapsed and died at training the following Thursday evening. Downs had played for three years knowing that he had a weak heart, and that he was taking a grave chance by continuing his football career – but chose to do so.

On the following Sunday afternoon, more than two thousand mourners paid their last respects when Downs was laid to rest at Carlton cemetery.

Round 10, 1927

Umpire Kain is given bucketing
Umpire Kain was pelted by a shower of fruit and stones as he tried to leave the ground after Carlton’s loss to Melbourne. Kain was attacked for failing to award Carlton’s Joe Kelly a free after a collision. At the end of the game it took three attempts before Kain was able to reach the dressing room. On route, he was kicked and jostled and a policeman was punched in a brawl. One man was arrested and charged with throwing a missle. Several weeks ago, after a game, a supporter threw a bucket of water over the hapless Kain. – 100 Years of Australian Rules Football.

Round 14, 1977

This game reveals on how inconsistent the Blues were this season. After losing to the bottom side Fitzroy last week, they come out and beat the reigning premiers Hawthorn the following week. If only they could harness this ability on a consistent basis.

One of only THREE games where Peter Hudson was kept goalless, by none other than the human blanket, Rod Austin (Geoff Southby was still having issues with Carlton).

At one stage late in the game, Hudson found himself near the fence in front of the soon to be completed Hawthorn stand, and a Carlton fan had a swipe at him, to which Huddo took umbrage. Of course, the majority Carlton crowd lapped it up.

Syd Jackson: 1st July

Read the story behind Syd’s Birth Date Here: http://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/4311/newsid/114240/default.aspx

Playing Career : 1969 – 1976
Debut : Round 1, 1969 vs St Kilda, aged 24 years 278 days
Carlton Player No. 808
Games : 136
Goals : 165
Guernsey No. 5
Last Game : Preliminary Final, 1976 vs North Melbourne, aged 32 years 79 days
Height : 172 cm (5 ft. 8 in.)
Weight : 72.5 kgs (11 stone, 6 lbs.)
DOB : July 1, 1944
Premiership Player 1970, 1972
Carlton Hall of Fame (2006)

Before Nicky Winmar made his celebrated stand against racism at Victoria Park; before Jim and Phil Krakouer redefined the art of ball-handling, and before a succession of brilliant aboriginal small forwards transformed the forward pocket from a respite station for tired rovers into a major avenue to goal – there was the mercurial Syd Jackson; a gifted, courageous aboriginal footballer who was a star in two Carlton Premiership teams.

Jackson was discovered by a scout from the East Perth Football Club in 1963. A scrawny, spindly-legged teenager from Roelands Mission near Bunbury, Western Australia, he was already dazzling with his ability on the football field. There wasn’t a lot of Syd, however within a year he was entrenched in the centre for the Royals, and considered as one of the rising stars of the WA competition. In fact, in his first year at East Perth, he scored more votes than anyone else in the Sandover Medal (WA’s equivalent of the Brownlow) but was ruled ineligible for the honour because he had been suspended during the year.

That effort brought strong overtures from two VFL clubs; North Melbourne and Carlton. Syd was reluctant to leave WA at first, but after repeated invitations he eventually agreed to join the Blues in 1968. By then he was a mature 24, with more than 100 senior games to his credit. For a lucrative transfer fee, East Perth agreed to clear Syd to Carlton. Then the WANFL stepped in.

Alarmed by the drain of its finest players from Perth to Melbourne, the WANFL board decided to make a stand, and refused to endorse Jackson’s transfer. Syd’s only option then was to stand out of football for a year. Under ANFC rules, players who took this course of action were granted automatic clearance after twelve months. Consequently, Jackson spent his first year at Carlton as coach Ron Barassi’s runner – which at least gave him some valuable insights into Barassi’s methods. It also got his career at Princes Park off to a positive start, when the Blues beat Essendon for the 1968 Premiership.

Syd pulled on Navy Blue guernsey number 5 for his first match in round one of 1969, against Richmond. He had played almost all of his senior football in WA in the centre, but Barassi had reservations about Jackson’s slim frame in heavy traffic at VFL level.  Instead, he preferred to use him as a creative half-forward flanker. Like most of Barassi’s ideas at the time, it proved a winner.

Jackson had an impressive debut season, using his lightning pace and accurate disposal with telling effect. An intuitive reader of the ball as it spilled off packs, and a driving drop-kick on the run, Syd was instrumental in Carlton finishing second on the ladder by percentage to Collingwood. But after jumping to outright favouritism for the flag with a decisive six goal defeat of the Magpies in the Second Semi, Carlton were no match for a rampaging Richmond in the ‘69 Grand Final, losing by 25 points.

Dan Halloran: 4th July

Playing Career : 1975 – 1977
Debut : Round 13, 1975 Aged 20 years 359 days
853th Carlton Player
Games : 15
Goals : 4
Last Game : Round 1, 1977 Aged 22 years 272 days
Guernsey No. 31
Height : 189 cm (6′ 2½”)
Weight : 95 kgs (14.13)
DOB : July 4, 1954

Danny Halloran was recruited from Kyneton and wore guernsey #31 in 15 games for Carlton commencing in Season 1975.  The 189cm Blue kicked 4 goals. Halloran retired from VFL football in 1978.

Alex Marcou: 6th July

Career : 1979-1986
Debut : Round 3, 1979 v Essendon, aged 20 years, 268 days
Carlton Player No. 879
Games : 134
Goals : 148
Last game : Round 11, 1986 v North Melbourne, aged 27 years, 338 days
Guernsey No. 34
Height : 178 cm
Weight : 76 kg
DOB : 6 July, 1958
Premiership Player: 1979, 1981, 1982
Carlton Hall of Fame (2006)

Alex Marcou was a member of Carlton’s fabled mosquito fleet of brilliant small men of the 1970’s and ‘80’s, and a three-time Premiership rover for the Blues. Recruited within the Blues recruiting zone, from northern suburban VAFA club Thomastown, he was among four first-gamers for Carlton in the opening round of the 1979 season. The others were Wayne Johnston, Robbert Klomp and Peter Francis; all of whom were destined for Premiership glory.

Marcou was a lightning-quick rover with sure ball-handling skills and excellent goal sense. Aged 20 on debut, by mid-season in ‘79 he was a regular in a powerful Blues combination that topped the ladder, then went on to beat Collingwood by 5 points in a see-sawing Grand Final on a boggy MCG. It was the perfect culmination to a great first year for the 178 cm, 76 kg speedster wearing number 34, and he was widely regarded as Recruit of the Year.

Carlton crashed out of the 1980 final series in successive weeks, but under new coach David Parkin, bounced back to beat Collingwood for the ’81 flag. This time, Marcou came off the bench when Carlton trailed by 21 points in the third quarter of the Grand Final. His pace was a factor as Carlton steadied, then rallied to win by 20 points. It was the Blues’ twelfth flag, and the second in a row over Collingwood.

Lance Styles: 6th July

Playing Career: 1973 – 1974
Debut: Round 14, 1973 v Hawthorn
Carlton Player No. 841
Games: 3
Goals: Nil
Last game: Round 15, 1974 v Richmond
Guernsey No. 35
Height: 185 cm
Weight: 85 kgs
DOB: 6th July 1951

Recruited from Northern Tasmanian Football Association club Scottsdale and wearing guernsey #35, Styles played 3 games for Carlton after debuting in the same game as Craig Davis in Round 14, 1973.

1973 4th Reserves Best & Fairest
1974 6th Reserves Best & Fairest

With thanks to the Blueseum for player pictures and information.

Celebrate the end of the financial year by becoming a part of our Business Directory.

Expose your business to passionate blues supporters. Being part of our premium online business directory will ensure your business is associated with a strong network of past players, supporters and fellow businesses. Become a member of the Spirit of Carlton Business Directory today.

Just $250 for non past players or $100 for past players for one year on the directory.

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Serge Silvagni: 28th June

Career : 1958 – 1971
Debut : Round 7, 1958 vs South Melbourne, aged 19 years, 330 days
Carlton Player No. 718
Games : 239
Goals : 136
Last Game: Round 22, 1971 vs Collingwood, aged 33 years, 61 days
Guernsey No. 20 (1958), 1 (1959 – 1971)
Height : 183 cm
Weight : 92 kg
Date of Birth: 28 Jun 1938
Premiership Player: 1968, 1970
Best and Fairest: 1962, 1968
Leading Goalkicker: 1959
Captain: 1964
Victorian Representative: 1962 & 1963
Carlton Hall of Fame (1989)
Team of the Century

The Sergio Silvagni story mirrors that of thousands of European settlers in Australia following World War II. While his parents had arrived years before and settled in Carlton, Sergio grew up in a time when Italy had been a recent enemy. He saw sport as a way of assimilating, so he took to the local game in primary school.

By his late teens he was a standout in senior school football with Parade College, and in 1956 he was invited to try out in a practice match with the Under 19 squad at Carlton. With fifty players involved and changes only being made at the regular intervals, he didn’t get a run until after half time – only to be sent to full-back to play on the team’s gun full-forward. In Serge’s words, he “blitzed” the bloke because he was so annoyed at having to wait to get his chance. Only later was he told that the officials at the game knew he could play, but they didn’t call on him earlier because they couldn’t pronounce his name!

The dark-haired, barrel-chested kid with determination written all over him forced his way into Carlton’s senior team in 1958. Originally given guernsey number 20, such was his impact that prior to the ’59 season his coach Jim Francis insisted that he switch to number 1. By this time Serge was a rapidly-maturing 21 year-old, standing 183 cm. When not playing or training with the Blues, he continued working in his father’s concreting business – hard physical labour that paid huge dividends in the powerful 92 kg physique he developed.

By 1962 Silvagni was established among the very best ruck-rovers in the game and was selected in the Victorian State team. A one-pace performer, he ran and worked as hard in the last minute of the game as he had in the first. He was a superb team player and a strong, safe mark; when Serge took front position or swooped on the ball at ground level, only a Mack truck could shift him. He wasn’t quick, but he read the play superbly and revelled in the fiercest contest.

Carlton made the 1962 Grand Final, only to lose to Essendon by 32 points, with Silvagni named among the best for the Blues. A couple of weeks later, Serge won Carlton’s Best & Fairest award with a record number of votes, polling in 19 of a possible 22 games. And in a portent of things to come, he had already developed a special on-field relationship with our blossoming champion ruckman John Nicholls.

Two years on, the third member of perhaps the greatest ruck combination of all played his first game for the Blues. Adrian Gallagher came to Carlton from Yarram, and claimed a rover’s spot in the senior team from day one. From 1964 to 1971 Nicholls, Silvagni and Gallagher were the most respected on-ball trio in the game. Nicholls’ brilliant palming, Silvagni’s tenacity and Gallagher’s fluent disposal made them a potent combination.

Serge was honoured with the captaincy in ’64, but the Blues had a poor year, finishing tenth. However the sensational arrival of Ron Barassi in 1966 revitalised the Blues, and two years afterward we beat Essendon by 3 points in a dour struggle before a record crowd on Grand Final day to claim our first flag in 21 years. Serge was in his element in that ’68 Grand Final, and was among Carlton’s top half-dozen contributors. He then topped off a great season with another Best & Fairest award.

Gary Lawson-Smith: 30th June

Playing Career : 1970-71
Debut : Round 10, 1970 vs Footscray
Carlton Player No. 823
Games : 7
Goals : Nil
Guernsey No. 16
Last Game: Round 11, 1971 vs Collingwood
Height : 191cm (6’3″)
Weight : 87.5kg (13.11)
Date of Birth : 30 June, 1947

Lawson-Smith debuted for the Blues in 1970, playing 7 games over 2 seasons.

Gary Smith was born in South Australia on June 30, 1947 and was recruited from Central District and had to stand out of football for the 1969 season, when he kept fit by being Carlton’s match day runner while waiting for his clearance.  He played in guernsey number 16 and debuted in Round 10, 1970 against Footscray at the Western Oval at the age of 22 years and 341 days old in this 10 point loss where he was named on the half back flank.  He was listed as 6′ 3″ (191cm) and 13.11 (87.5kg) and he played 3 senior games during 1970.

Before the start of  1971 season he married and changed his name from Smith to Lawson-Smith (Lawson being his middle name).  He was one of  the two Carlton players to change their surnames for this season the other one being Andy Lukas who shorted his name to Lukas.

Thanks to the Blueseum for this content.

It is with great pleasure that the Spirit of Carlton Past and Present wishes John Goold a happy 70th birthday. We hope that all involved in John’s life enjoy this wonderful milestone. John is a great friend of the Spirit of Carlton and has generously given his time for many of our events over the years. Please leave your birthday wishes to John in the comments section of this article.

Career : 1963 – 1970
Debut : Round 7, 1963 vs Footscray, aged 21 years, 338 days
Carlton Player No. 754
Games : 108
Goals : 3
Last Game : Grand Final, 1970 vs Collingwood, aged 29 years, 90 days
Guernsey No. 11
Height : 184 cm (6 ft ½ in.)
Weight : 76 kg (12 stone, 0 lbs.)
DOB : June 27, 1941
Premiership Player 1968, 1970
All Australian 1966

A brilliant, flamboyant, two-time Premiership player for Carlton during the Barassi years in the ‘swingin’ sixties,’ John William Crosbie Goold became almost as famous for his dapper appearance off the field, as for his exploits on it. At the height of his football career, he was also a prominent ladies fashion designer – which led to him being dubbed ‘Mr Elegance’ by leading football commentator Lou Richards. Supporters and team-mates however, called him ‘Rags’ or ‘Ragsy,’ because of his involvement in the clothing, or ‘rag’ trade.

Goold first came under notice as an outstanding junior athlete at Melbourne Grammar School. A true all-round sportsman, he shone at tennis, athletics, football and cricket. He was also a keen horseman who loved the game of polo and the rough and tumble of fox hunting. While at school he was a fervent Melbourne supporter, but strangely, never had much confidence in his football ability.

“If I thought I was good enough, I would certainly have gone to Melbourne,” he said many years later. “But I honestly didn’t think I would ever amount to anything in this game. Cricket and tennis were the games that really interested me.’ However, after graduating from MGS, Goold went home to Healesville to star in the Bloods’ 1962 Yarra Valley Football Association Premiership team – an achievement that brought tempting offers from more than one VFL club.

“Incentives were offered elsewhere,” he recalled, “but I gravitated to Carlton – partly because the deep blue of their guernsey attracted me, but mostly because of the good advice I got from people who even then were longsighted enough to predict that big things were ahead for this club.”

The Blues were confident enough in Goold’s potential to offer him the guernsey number 11 previously worn with distinction by the likes of Jack Hale, Jim Knight, Ron Hines and Laurie Kerr, and his first senior game came in round 7, 1963 against Footscray at the Western Oval. He played on a half-forward flank alongside Brownlow Medallists Gordon Collis and John James on that Saturday afternoon, and kicked his first career goal in an 8-point win. Little did he know though, that it would be another six seasons before he would again experience the thrill of sending a football spinning between the big posts, because his future lay in defence.

By his own admission, Goold struggled to find his feet in VFL football during his first two seasons, until the shock appointment of Ron Barassi as captain-coach of Carlton in 1965 began steering his career back on track. “I think you could say that 1965 was my first year of League football,” he said, “That’s the way I felt – that’s the way I reacted to Barassi.”

Under Barassi, Goold rapidly developed into a superb running half-back flanker. Tenacious, and an often freakish high mark, he was unmistakable on the field thanks to his mane of dark hair, his loping running style and somewhat awkward kicking action. Furthermore, he had boundless courage. There is no doubt that he would have played many more games had he not been regularly pole-axed under the high ball – a fact he later freely admitted. “I was always getting knocked out,” he said, “and spent half my bloody time in hospital.”

In the second half of 1965, an injury to centre half-back Gordon Collis forced Barassi to use Goold in the key defensive post. While it curtailed his rebounding instincts somewhat, ‘Ragsy’ rose to the challenge and rarely lowered his colours. Testament to his improvement, he finished third behind John Nicholls and Sergio Silvagni in Carlton’s 1965 Best and Fairest award, and followed up by being selected in the Victorian team for the 1966 Hobart Carnival. There, he had a superb series in which he was runner-up to West Australian Barry Cable in voting for the Tassie Medal, and capped it off by being named on a half-back flank in the All Australian team.

Barassi’s influence at Carlton bore fruit in his third year, when the Blues returned to finals football at last. Richmond, Carlton, Geelong and Collingwood fought out the 1967 Premiership, and Ragsy Goold won the hearts of the Carlton faithful with two lion-hearted performances. Although Carlton was knocked out of contention by successive losses to Richmond and Geelong, Goold was tireless throughout both games, and it was obvious that he thrived on the added pressure of finals football.

Precisely twelve months later, the bitter taste of those defeats was washed away when Barassi’s Blues edged out Essendon by 3 points in the 1968 Grand Final, and ended 21 years of despair at Princes Park. To win Carlton’s ninth VFL flag, the Blues had had to defeat the minor premier Bombers twice during the finals – and did so, thanks to a watertight defence led by Goold, and a dominant ruck division headed by John Nicholls.

In round 5, 1969, Carlton hosted South Melbourne at Princes Park in a match significant for a number of reasons. As he regularly did, Ron Barassi swung his team around prior to the opening bounce, and Goold found himself in the unaccustomed role of ruck-rover. While the Blues set about establishing a good break on the scoreboard, Ragsy relished the freedom to kick two first half goals – his first majors for 78 games. Just before half-time however, he was flattened in a pack, concussed again, and replaced during the long break by Barry Gill. Alex Jesaulenko was substituted at the same time – by a shy, ambitious youngster named Bruce Doull, making his senior debut for Carlton in guernsey number 4.

In September, 1969 the Navy Blues began their third straight finals campaign with an impressive 6-goal Semi Final win over Collingwood in front of more than 108,000 fans at the MCG. A fortnight later, Richmond stunned the flag favourites with a withering last quarter in the Grand Final, and knocked Carlton out of the Premiership race again at the last hurdle. Half-way through the year, Carlton’s club doctor discovered that Goold had been playing with shin splints in both of his lower legs. The pain they caused was considerable, but Ragsy soldiered on and held down centre half-back throughout the season.

John Goold’s VFL career at Carlton culminated in the fabled 1970 Grand Final triumph over Collingwood. What is not so well known is that Ragsy was only cleared to play in that game on the morning of the match. After narrowly losing to Collingwood in the second Semi Final, the Navy Blues destroyed St Kilda by 62 points in the Preliminary Final, and earned another shot at the Magpies in the decider. But one of Carlton’s problems was that Goold had been kicked on a shin against St Kilda, causing a burst blood vessel and serious swelling.

Despite the best efforts of the club medical staff, Ragsy had only a slim chance of playing in the Grand Final right up until game day, when his worried coach reluctantly allowed him to take his place in the side. Later, Barassi justified his decision by saying that in his opinion, a less than fully fit Goold was still worth his place in the team. By half time in the Grand Final however, he was probably questioning that judgement – because Carlton had been totally outplayed, and trailed an impressive, cohesive Collingwood by 44 points.

Therefore, Carlton’s magnificent comeback – orchestrated by Barassi, and sparked by the fairytale exploits of 19th man Ted Hopkins – is one of the greatest of all football stories. Against enormous odds, the Navy Blues fought their way back into the contest, and eventually, rolled over the top of the frantic Magpies to snatch victory by 10 points in the last few minutes of the match.

Hopkins ended up with four goals, Barassi was hailed a genius, and Ragsy Goold was carted off to hospital immediately after the game to have further urgent treatment. While there, he decided that there was no better time to end his VFL career – especially because his burgeoning business interests were demanding more and more of his time.

In the years after his football career ended, John Goold created a remarkably successful business empire. In 1971 he sold his fashion label and took up farming at Mortlake in western Victoria, where he coached the local football team for three seasons. Later, he formed a diversified pastoral company, and purchased a magnificent complex called Ballangeich Run at nearby Ellerslie. While his passion for farming and livestock grew, he began breeding top quality polo ponies, and represented Australia in international competition.

During the 1997 and 1998 seasons, John’s son Ed Goold played reserve grade football for Carlton.

Thanks to the Blueseum for this bio.