GLEESON, Martin

Originally from Koroit, Martin Gleeson was recruited from North Ballarat Under 18s with pick 53 in the 2012 National Draft. He played 13 games with Essendon's VFL team in 2013 before injuring his shoulder. He debuted in the first game of the 2014 season with a win over North Melbourne.

He was a solid and reliable defender, and although lightly-built, was capable of playing on taller opponents, and had three consistent seasons. Unfortunately, he missed the entire 2018 season with a serious ankle injury incurred during pre-season training.

He struggled to regain a regular place in the team following his injury and was delisted at the end of the 2020 season. He was reinstated through the Rookie Draft but only managed another six games and was delisted again at the end of the 2021 season.

He was a very popular team man as indicated by his winning the 2020 John Kilby Trainers and Staff Award. This is awarded to the player who "shows respect to trainers and staff at all times, demonstrates a genuine care for wellbeing, drives interactions that are healthy and beneficial to the club and its values".

His uncle was Adrian Gleeson who played 176 games with Carlton.

Martin Gleeson played amateur football with University Blues after retiring.