Pat Wellington

Recruited from the Mallee town of Hopetoun, Pat Wellington was a high-flying forward who joined Essendon’s under-19s before breaking into the senior side in late 1972. Known for his vertical leap and spectacular marking ability, he showed glimpses of genuine potential at the top level, most notably booting five goals against Footscray at the Western Oval in 1973. Despite these highlights, he struggled to cement a permanent spot in the starting 22, often oscillating between the seniors and the reserves where he was a dominant force and eventual runner-up in the best and fairest. A highly respected figure at Windy Hill, he won the Best Clubman award in 1974 before departing the VFL after the 1976 season. Wellington continued his football journey across the eastern seaboard, playing for Yarraville in the VFA and Pennant Hills in Sydney, before finishing his career in Queensland with Southport and Kedron prior to his premature death at just 33 years of age.