S. Peter Wood

Arriving in the VFL with a massive reputation, Peter Wood was a highly sought-after country recruit from Camperdown who sparked a bidding war involving nearly every league club. The 189cm prospect initially signed with Melbourne after winning a local Best and Fairest at just 17, but he spent his first season developing as a ruckman in the Demons' reserves during their premiership era. Seeking senior opportunity, Wood transferred to Fitzroy in 1965 and immediately found his niche, settling as a reliable full-back who used his height and strength to anchor the Lions' defence. He remained a defensive fixture for six seasons and featured in the club's famous upset win over Richmond in the first-ever VFL Sunday match in 1970. Despite his standing at the club, Wood made a sudden departure later that year at just 24 years of age, retiring from league football to manage his farms and captain-coach Kyneton.