Verdun Howell

Recruited from City-South in Tasmania, Verdun Howell arrived at St Kilda in 1958 and immediately established himself as a player ahead of his time. While the era’s full-backs were typically stopper-style defenders focused on spoiling and bodywork, Howell revolutionised the position with his attacking flair and aerial judgement. He was known for backing himself to outmark his opponent and dash up the ground to set up play, a high-risk style that made him a fan favourite at Moorabbin. This dominance was recognised in 1959 when he tied with Bob Skilton for the Brownlow Medal, though he famously lost on a countback and had to wait until 1989 to be retrospectively awarded his rightful medal.

Howell's versatility became a key asset for the Saints as they climbed the ladder, with the club eventually utilising his skills at the other end of the ground—he even booted nine goals in a match against Hawthorn. However, he is best remembered for his defensive prowess during the club’s most famous era. As vice-captain in the 1966 Premiership side, he played a crucial role on the half-back flank, notably taking the field with a broken jaw wired shut. A member of St Kilda’s Team of the Century and an Australian Football Hall of Fame inductee, Howell remains one of the most decorated figures in the club’s history.