John Heriot

Recruited from Spotswood, John Heriot grew up barracking for Footscray but found himself wearing the red and white due to the residential zoning rules of the era. While he debuted for South Melbourne in 1958 on a half-forward flanker, his true calling was discovered six games later when he was shifted to the last line of defence. This strategic move allowed Brownlow Medallist Fred Goldsmith to swing forward, while Heriot locked down the full-back position for the next decade. Known for his distinctive short-sleeved guernsey—a rarity in the 1960s—he was a reliable, tireless defender who, despite a slender frame, became a tower of strength for the Bloods.

Heriot's time in the VFL ended prematurely at just 28 years of age, when he accepted a lucrative offer to captain-coach Yarraville in the VFA—a decision driven by the financial reality of supporting his wife and five children. Despite his early exit, his standing at the club remains immense, evidenced by his selection at full-back in the official South Melbourne/Sydney Swans Team of the Century. In his post-playing days, he maintained a deep connection to the club, serving as a long-term president of the Past Players and Officials Association and remaining a revered figure among the Swans faithful.