Ron Andrews

Known universally as "Rotten Ronnie," Ron Andrews established himself as one of the most feared enforcers of his era. A cult hero at Windy Hill, he developed a reputation as an uncompromising ruck-rover and defender who prioritized physical presence over polish. His playstyle was defined by aggression and protective loyalty toward his teammates, a trait that endeared him to the Essendon faithful but frequently drew the ire of umpires and the tribunal. For over a decade, Andrews provided the backbone of the Bombers' defence, acting as the designated protector for the club's skillful smaller players during a physically brutal period of VFL football.

Despite his status as a club stalwart, the tenure of Kevin Sheedy eventually signaled the end of his time in the red and black. Deemed surplus to requirements as Sheedy reshaped the list for a premiership assault, Andrews was cleared to arch-rivals Collingwood for the 1984 season. It proved to be a cruel twist of timing, as he played his final year at Victoria Park while his former side marched to a drought-breaking premiership against his new club. While he missed out on the ultimate success, Andrews remains a significant figure in Essendon history, remembered fondly for the raw toughness and character he brought to the field.