Ian Synman

Recruited from Melbourne Grammar, Ian Synman established himself as the anchor of St Kilda’s defence during the club’s most successful era. A steadfast centre half-back known for his remarkable durability, he strung together 123 consecutive games, providing a reliable backbone for the Saints as they rose from cellar dwellers to contenders. His statistical record remains a curiosity in league history; he played 154 games without ever kicking a goal, a testament to his disciplined focus on spoiling and rebounding rather than drifting forward of the centre line.

Synman’s career is best remembered for the personal dilemma he faced ahead of the 1966 Grand Final. With the match scheduled on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, Synman sought counsel from his rabbi before ultimately deciding to take his place in the side. He played a crucial role in the one-point victory over Collingwood, securing the club’s first premiership. In the euphoric aftermath, he famously became the only St Kilda player who refused to swap guernseys with an opponent, preferring to keep the jumper he wore during the historic triumph.