BELLCHAMBERS, Tom

Tom Bellchambers was drafted from the Tasmanian Devils with pick 8 in the 2007 Pre-season Draft. He played his first game against Hawthorn in Round 11 of the 2008 season.

It took him several seasons to become established in the side but by 2013 he was Essendon's number one ruckman and he played consistent football as a ruck-man until his retirement in 2019.

He was one of the 34 players and officials suspended due to the supplements saga of 2012 and did not play during the 2016 season.

He struggled with injuries towards the end of his career and announced his retirement after Round 17, 2020. He was one of the most popular players at the Club and there was great disappointment among players and supporters when he wasn't given a farewell game the following week. He held no grudge and returned to the Club in 2021 as ruck coach and mentor to emerging ruckman, Sam Draper.

He signed with Heidelberg in the Northern Football League, but his appearances were limited by his involvement at Essendon.

Bellchambers married actress, Olympia Valance, in June 2022.