Alec Epis

Recruited from Kalgoorlie in Western Australia, Alec Epis arrived at Essendon in 1958 and established himself as a flamboyant and attacking defender during a golden era for the club. In a time when backmen were generally expected to play conservative, safety-first football, Epis was ahead of his time, frequently backing his judgement to launch dashing rebounding runs from the half-back flank. His bold playstyle and booming drop kicks made him a vital component of the lineup under coach John Coleman, and he played a pivotal role in the Bombers' premiership triumphs in 1962 and 1965.

Epis accumulated 180 games over eleven seasons, rarely drifting forward to score but constantly driving the team from the back half. Although he battled for selection at times late in his career as the list regenerated, he remained a fierce competitor until his retirement in 1968. His contribution to Essendon extended well beyond his playing days, as he became a long-serving board member and President of the Past Players and Officials Association, cementing his status as a dedicated club servant.