Tom Wraith

Recruited from the Bendigo region after impressive stints with Eaglehawk and Castlemaine, Tom Wraith was a clever left-footed forward who proved a perfect foil for the legendary Dick Lee. While often playing second fiddle to the league's greatest goalkicker, Wraith was a dangerous option in his own right, known for his ability to snap goals under pressure and find space in a crowded forward line. His time at Victoria Park was defined by a mix of personal heartbreak and redemption; in 1917, he was controversially omitted from the Grand Final side to accommodate a returning Lee, despite having played a starring role in the preliminary final win. Wraith responded with character, topping the Magpies' goalkicking in 1918 and eventually earning his premiership medallion in 1919, where he booted two vital goals in the Grand Final triumph over Richmond. After struggling with injuries in his final season, he finished his playing days with Northcote in the VFA before forging a successful post-football career as a country umpire.