JENKINS, Tommy

Tommy Jenkins was a fine full-forward who was solid and strong. He joined Essendon from North Melbourne (VFA)

At only 173 cm, "Fisho", as he was known, was short for a key forward and he was extremely rotund at 93 kg, but he was a solid mark and a regarded as one of the best place and drop kicks in Victoria. He was a member of the team that played the first game at Windy Hill in 1922.

Jenkins was Essendon's leading goalkicker in 1924 with 50 goals and again in 1925 with 37 goals. He was also runner-up in 1921 and 1922 and third top in 1923.

He was a late inclusion for Harry Hunter in the 1923 premiership team and was also in the forward pocket in the 1924 premiership team. He was selected in the State side in 1922.

Jenkins kicked seven goals in a game 1924 and 1925 and six goals in a game in 1929. He kicked five goals twice in 1924. However in the 1924 finals series he failed to kick a goal in the last of the Club's three games. It was the only game for the season when he was goalless.

He had a great start to 1925, kicking 37 goals in the first nine games, including nine against North Melbourne, before injuring his knee and missing the remainder of the year.

Jenkins later returned to North Melbourne in 1927, when his old club joined the VFL, but only managed three games.

He ran a stall in the Victoria Market until he died on 6th August, 1979, at the age of 77.