John Thompson
Richmond
AFL career
65 games0 goals
- Debut
- R5 1959 v COL23 May 1959
- Most recent
- R15 1963 v FSC17 Aug 1963
Stats
Bio
A product of Benalla who reached the VFL via a unique arrangement with Ararat, John Thompson was a stoic key defender who exemplified the dedication of the amateur era. Living and working as a solicitor in Ararat throughout his time at Punt Road, Thompson endured a punishing weekly commute of over 800 kilometres to train and play, yet still managed to cement the centre half-back position during a lean period for the Tigers. Known for his consistency and close-checking style rather than flashiness—evidenced by his goalless career—he became a vital pillar of the backline, eventually serving as vice-captain and finishing third in the 1960 Best and Fairest. After 65 games, he returned to country football as a captain-coach, leading Mortlake to consecutive Grand Finals in the Hampden League.
Profile
- Full name
- John L. Thompson
- Born
- 21 June 1938
- Died
- 11 Feb 1999 (aged 60y 235d)
- Birthplace
- Benalla, VIC
- Deathplace
- Queensland
- Height
- 185 cm
- Weight
- 76 kg
Teams
Honours
- Richmond B&F
- 3rd
- 1960
- Top 10
- 1961, 1962
Bio
1 revisionA product of Benalla who reached the VFL via a unique arrangement with Ararat, John Thompson was a stoic key defender who exemplified the dedication of the amateur era. Living and working as a solicitor in Ararat throughout his time at Punt Road, Thompson endured a punishing weekly commute of over 800 kilometres to train and play, yet still managed to cement the centre half-back position during a lean period for the Tigers. Known for his consistency and close-checking style rather than flashiness—evidenced by his goalless career—he became a vital pillar of the backline, eventually serving as vice-captain and finishing third in the 1960 Best and Fairest. After 65 games, he returned to country football as a captain-coach, leading Mortlake to consecutive Grand Finals in the Hampden League.