Alan Thaw

Recruited from the North Essendon Methodists after serving in the army during World War II, Alan Thaw was an uncompromising back pocket known for his fearless, physical approach to the game. He broke into the senior side late in the 1949 season and made an immediate impact, cementing his spot in the lineup just in time to play a key role in the Bombers' premiership victory over Carlton that same year. Often referred to as "Basher" for his hard-bumping style, Thaw provided a ruthless edge to the Essendon defence throughout the early 1950s before retiring from senior football at the end of 1954. His contribution to the club extended far beyond his playing days, however, as he went on to become a revered figure at Windy Hill, coaching the reserves and under-19s squads for over twenty years.