WILLIAMS, John

John Williams was solid rather than spectacular and gave opponents few kicks while often not getting many himself. He was regarded as a reliable and sturdy defender and was a respected clubman.

He debuted in Round 1, 1965, against Fitzroy, and finished with three games for the year.

He kicked two goals in a narrow loss to St Kilda in his third game, rd 8 1966, and that seemed to be something of a turning point and he played every remaining game for the year. He played 15 out of 18 games the following year and won the Best Clubman award for 1967, an award he won again in 1969.

In 1968 he played all but one game and was a member of the grand final side that lost to Carlton and also won the Best Team Man award. He won this award a second time in 1973.

Williams was selected in the State side in 1970 and 1972 and won an All-Australian blazer in 1972. He was also named at centre half-back in The Sun All Star Team in 1970.

He was runner-up in Essendon's Best and Fairest award in 1971 and finished third in 1970 and 1972. Williams was also equal third in the Brownlow Medal award in 1972 with 18 votes, and was Essendon's second top vote scorer in 1971.

His hard work was recognised when he was appointed vice-captain in 1971 and again in 1973. He was also appointed captain for a game in 1970 when five senior players resigned in a dispute over money and conditions.

After being dogged by a leg injury in the twilight of his career, Williams transferred to Collingwood from 1974 to 1976 where he played 35 games.

He was appointed captain of VFA club, Brunswick, in 1977.