Neil Freeman

A product of Geelong College and the local East Geelong side, Neil Freeman emerged as a steady fullback for the Pivotonians during the tumultuous years leading up to the Great War. He manned the last line of defence for four seasons, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the backline before his football career was abruptly curtailed by the outbreak of conflict in Europe. Freeman played his final game in 1914 and enlisted the following year, trading his guernsey for khaki to forge a military legacy that ultimately overshadowed his sporting exploits. He rose to the rank of Brigadier across two world wars and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his leadership at the Battle of Polygon Wood, returning to Geelong post-service as a solicitor and councillor rather than a footballer.