Jess Sinclair

Recruited from the Eastern Ranges with pick 21 in the 1996 National Draft, Jess Sinclair began his AFL career at Fremantle, where he showed early promise as a running utility across 50 games. His tenure in the west ended following the 2000 season when he became a central figure in a high-profile trade deal that saw former Docker Peter Bell return to Fremantle. Sinclair moved to North Melbourne in exchange, a switch that defined the remainder of his career as he settled into a role at Arden Street.

At North Melbourne, Sinclair established himself as a rebounding half-back flanker known for his dash and a long, penetrating left-foot kick. Instantly recognisable by his flowing blonde hair, he provided essential run and carry for the Kangaroos, often backing his speed to break lines and set up attacking forays from deep in defence. While his high-risk style sometimes impacted his disposal efficiency, he became a consistent senior regular and a key part of the Roos' defensive unit throughout the 2000s. He retired at the end of the 2008 season, falling just short of the 200-game milestone.