Julian Kirzner

Recruited from the Western Jets with pick 36 in the 1993 National Draft, Julian Kirzner was a high-flying key forward whose senior opportunities were severely limited by the strength of the squads he represented. Standing 188cm, he was known for his strong hands and contested marking ability, traits that made him a prolific goalkicker at reserves level. However, breaking into Essendon’s forward line proved nearly impossible during the mid-1990s, with the emergence of young stars like Matthew Lloyd and Scott Lucas effectively squeezing him out after just one senior appearance. Following a brief stint training with Carlton, he was thrown a lifeline by North Melbourne via the 1997 Rookie Draft, where he managed three games and booted five goals, including a sharp three-goal haul against Port Adelaide. One of the few players of Jewish heritage to play at the highest level, Kirzner was ultimately delisted as he struggled to bypass stars like Wayne Carey in the Kangaroos' pecking order, eventually retiring from state league football due to persistent knee injuries.