Syd Barker jnr

Carrying one of the most revered names in North Melbourne history, Syd Barker jnr debuted in 1930 just months after the untimely death of his father, Shinboner legend Syd Barker Sr. A sturdily built follower who physically resembled his famous dad, Barker jnr was thrust immediately into a struggling lineup, enduring a brutal run of 26 consecutive losses before finally experiencing a senior victory. He was a regular fixture in the side during his first two seasons, often shouldering a heavy workload in the ruck and around the ground for a team that sat firmly at the bottom of the ladder. However, his influence waned over the subsequent years, and he was eventually omitted from the list following the 1933 season. Seeking a lifeline, he crossed to Essendon the following year after a complex residential clearance dispute, but he failed to break into the Bombers' senior side.