Ed Sanneman

Recruited from South Bendigo, Ed Sanneman was a tall, sturdy defender who made his mark at the Junction Oval as a reliable key position player. Standing 185cm—significant height for the 1920s—he possessed the size of a ruckman but the mobility to hold down a key defensive post, using his strength and overhead marking ability to repel opposition attacks. After a debut season in 1922, he spent two years out of the VFL lineup before returning in 1925 to establish himself as a mainstay in the Saints' backline. Often characterised by football writers of the day as a "sound" and steady competitor rather than a flashy star, he provided much-needed backbone to the St Kilda defence during a challenging era for the club. He remained a consistent selection until his retirement in 1931, concluding his career as a respected clubman who played his role with little fuss.