Bert Rankin

Born into Geelong football royalty as the son of club legend Teddy Rankin, Bert Rankin wasted little time establishing his own legacy at Corio Oval. Debuting in 1912, less than two years after his father retired, he evolved from a forward into one of the era's premier centremen. Known for his blistering pace and elite distribution via the drop kick, he was the engine room of the Geelong side for over a decade. His individual brilliance was recognised with a club Best and Fairest in 1917 and the captaincy of the Victorian state team in 1922, a significant honour that highlighted his standing across the league as a premier playmaker.

His tenure at Geelong concluded with one of the most contentious episodes in the club's history. In 1923, Rankin was appointed captain with his younger brother Cliff as vice-captain, marking the first time siblings held the top two leadership posts simultaneously. However, on the eve of the semi-final against Fitzroy, the selectors controversially dropped the skipper from the side, citing form. The decision caused a sensation; Bert walked out on the club immediately, and Cliff refused to play in the final in solidarity. It was an abrupt and bitter end for a 132-game veteran who is often credited by historians with coining the club’s famous "Cats" nickname.