OFFICER, Ned

Ned Officer was one of the great full-backs of his era. He was at the twilight of his career when Essendon joined the League in 1897, as he had already played 105 games for the Association team. He had played a major role in the great Essendon Association premiership teams between 1891 and 1894.

He also represented Victoria in the intercolonial game against South Australia in 1892.

He came to Essendon from Geelong College and prior to that Warrnambool, and was the new style of full-back. He was not only a magnificent long kick, with either drop, place or punt, but a big, fast, rugged man, a splendid high-mark and clever on the ground.

His obituary in The Australasian described his physical appearance: "His body was so round and big that he could not be held, and it was one of the sights of the football field to see Ned Officer coming through the opposing forces like an avalanche, and clearing the lines time and again."

His retirement paved the way for Hugh Gavin to become an outstanding defender.

His brother, Gus, played 48 games for Essendon between 1897 and 1900.

Ned Officer was a doctor and his career took him to Perth, where he practised for 30 years. He became interested in racing and owned some of the best horses in Western Australia and acted as medical officer for the West Australian Turf Club.

He died of a heart attack in Perth on 10th June, 1927.