Carl Willis

A standout dual-sport athlete who balanced elite football with a first-class cricket career for Victoria, Carl Willis was a central figure for University before finding a second home at South Melbourne. Emerging from Wesley College, he established himself as a goal-kicking follower for the Students, where his competitive edge famously resulted in him becoming the first VFL player suspended on the report of a ground steward. Following University’s withdrawal from the league, Willis transferred to South Melbourne, but his career was soon interrupted by service as a dental officer in World War I, during which he was gassed in France and featured in the historic Pioneer Exhibition Game in London. He returned to the Bloods as a distinguished leader, eventually captaining the club in his final season to cap off a career defined by resilience and versatility.