Albert Lauder

Known universally as "Harry" after the famous Scottish entertainer of the era, Lauder remains one of the most statistically successful players in VFL history despite a brief career. A mature-age recruit from the Public Service team in the sub-districts, he was rejected by Hawthorn, Richmond, and Carlton before eventually finding a home at Victoria Park. Although he spent his first few seasons on the fringe, an injury to star defender Ernie Wilson in 1928 allowed Lauder to cement his spot as a tough, dashing half-back with massive hands and a fearless attack on the ball. He wasted little time making an impact, becoming a vital cog in Jock McHale's legendary "Machine" and playing in the 1928, 1929, and 1930 premiership sides. Lauder holds the league record for the most consecutive wins to start a career (18) and retired with three premiership medallions from just 36 senior games—an unmatched strike rate—after a knee injury ended his run in 1931.