John Gill

Recruited from Casterton in western Victoria, John Gill continued a strong family legacy at Princes Park as the nephew of former star Frank Gill and the older brother of future dual-premiership player Barry. A determined half-forward flanker known for his straight-ahead style, Gill made an immediate impact in his debut 1962 season, holding his spot in the senior side to play in the Grand Final loss to Essendon and winning the club's Best First Year Player award. He remained a consistent contributor for the Blues over the next few seasons before his career was cruelly cut short at just 25 years of age. After booting a career-best three goals in the opening round of 1967, he suffered a severe knee injury and, despite a brief attempted return later that year, was forced into premature retirement.