CAPUANO, Barry

Barry Capuano was a smart wingman who never stopped trying. Speed was his main asset and he could deliver magnificent kicks on the run.

He came to the Thirds from North Essendon Methodists and won Best First Year Player award in 1958. He was selected in the League Combined Second 18 team the following year. He performed brilliantly and was elevated to the Seniors.

He was one of the best players on the wing in the 1962 premiership win but a knee injury cost him a place in the 1965 premiership team.

He was selected in the State side in 1963. He also won Essendon's award for Best Player under 21 in 1961 and the Most Consistent Player award in 1963.

When he left Essendon, he became captain-coach of Mitcham in 1967 and 1968 and then captained Eltham in 1969 and 1970 to two Diamond Valley League premierships.

He was on the Essendon committee from 1974 to 1976 and was the Club's general manager from 1981-1988. In between he coached Stawell in 1978 and 1979.

He has been a key member of the Essendon Football Club Past Players & Officials Association, serving as President from 2015 to 2021. He was elevated to a Legend of the Hall of Fame in June 2023.