Tom Bellchambers

Recruited from the Tassie Mariners with pick 8 in the 2007 Pre-Season Draft, Tom Bellchambers developed into a physical and reliable ruckman for the Bombers over a 13-season career. A classic tall who relied on superior bodywork and overhead marking power rather than elite mobility, he became a dangerous threat by drifting forward to impact the scoreboard, notably booting 28 goals during a breakout 2013 campaign that earned him a nomination in the All-Australian squad. For much of his tenure, Bellchambers operated effectively in a ruck tandem, sharing duties with the likes of David Hille and Patrick Ryder to provide Essendon with a distinct height advantage at stoppages and inside 50.

His career momentum was frequently stalled by a series of persistent injuries—particularly to his knees and ankles—and the 2016 season-long suspension arising from the club's supplements saga, factors that ultimately restricted him to 136 games. Despite these interruptions, he remained a highly respected figure at Tullamarine, eventually being voted into the leadership group and earning Life Membership. In his final seasons, his role shifted toward mentoring the club's emerging ruck stocks, particularly Sam Draper, before he announced his retirement following the 2020 season.