Bill Allen

Recruited from South Yarra, Bill Allen established himself as a durable ruckman for Melbourne, shouldering a heavy workload during a particularly lean era for the club. A talented dual-sportsman who also played Sheffield Shield cricket for Victoria, Allen was known for his dedication, often making frantic dashes by train from his home in Ringwood to attend training and matches. His momentum was halted by the First World War, which saw him miss three complete seasons between 1916 and 1918, effectively robbing him of his prime athletic years.

Upon his return in 1919, Allen resumed his post as a key pillar of the Redlegs' side. His loyalty was tested late in his career when Richmond made enquiries for his services in 1922, but he opted to remain at Melbourne. Unfortunately, his final campaigns were marred by fitness issues and a severe case of influenza in 1923 that brought his time in the VFL to a premature close. He remained a fixture at the club long after hanging up the boots, serving as a door attendant and eventually receiving Life Membership in 1945.