Tom Arklay

A Geelong local recruited from North Geelong, Tom Arklay established himself as a tough and physical utility who became one of the club's most decorated players of the 1930s. Primarily operating on a half-back flank where his strength in the contest made him a difficult opponent to bypass, he also possessed the versatility to move into the midfield as a ruck rover when required. His durability and consistency were hallmarks of his game, allowing him to cement a spot in the senior side from his debut season in 1933 through to the early war years.

Arklay reached the pinnacle of team success as a member of the Cats' 1937 premiership side, but his individual brilliance shone brightest in the years immediately following the flag. He claimed the club's Best and Fairest award twice, in 1938 and 1940, and was elevated to the captaincy in 1941. After stepping away from the VFL for two seasons, he returned to Kardinia Park in 1944 to serve as captain-coach for a final year before retiring. His football journey continued in country Victoria, where he built a formidable reputation as a coach, steering multiple clubs to premiership success in the Wimmera and Western District leagues.