John Scarlett

Recruited from local side St Joseph's, John Scarlett became a defensive pillar for Geelong across a decade of service. Known as 'Gunner'—a nod to his National Service days—he was a fullback who balanced a traditional shutdown game with a dashing, attacking style that was rare for defenders of the era. Scarlett was often tasked with manning the VFL's most dangerous forwards, including Hawthorn goal-kicking machine Peter Hudson, yet he was equally renowned for his willingness to peel off his opponent and launch counter-attacks with a booming kick. His career began on a high note, featuring as a reserve in the Cats' 1967 Grand Final side during his debut season.

In 1977, Scarlett transferred to South Melbourne, where he spent his final two years adding veteran steel to the Bloods' defence before retiring. While his 212-game career and subsequent Geelong Hall of Fame induction stand on their own merits, his legacy is inextricably linked to the father-son rule. His service paved the way for the Cats to recruit his son, Matthew Scarlett, who would emulate John's attacking flair to become one of the greatest fullbacks in league history and a triple premiership player for Geelong.