Charlie Hammond

Recruited from the Northcote Brickfielders, Charlie Hammond established himself as one of the most successful players in Carlton history during the club's golden era under Jack Worrall. A solidly built and uncompromising figure, Hammond initially played as a defender before developing into an elite ruck shepherd—a role that required him to physically protect his ruckman and clear paths for the smaller midfielders. His toughness and versatility made him a central figure in the Blues' famous "hat-trick" of premierships between 1906 and 1908, where he formed a formidable following division that dominated the competition.

Hammond’s career trajectory took a controversial turn in 1910 when he was one of several players to walk out on the club in protest following the sacking of coach Jack Worrall. He spent four years in the VFA with North Melbourne, helping them secure a premiership, before being coaxed back to Princes Park in 1914. His return sparked a second dynasty for the Blues, as he played a crucial role in the back-to-back flag victories of 1914 and 1915. To this day, "Champagne Charlie" holds the unique distinction of being the only man to play in five premiership sides for the Carlton Football Club.