CLARKE, Neil

Neil "Nobby" Clarke started off as a wingman after arriving from Ringwood. He had limited success initially, but he switched to the back pocket in 1981 and developed into a fine defender.

He was a mobile player who could also play on the ball, and he could play the tagging role and still gather possessions.

After missing the 1983 Grand Final with a knee injury, Clarke was in the back pocket in the 1984 premiership win. He was also ruck-rover in the 1985 premiership victory.

He had also played in the back pocket in the 1981 night premiership team and the 1984 night premiership side.

Clarke won Essendon's Most Determined Player award in 1981, the Most Improved Player award in 1982, and the Best Clubman award in 1984.

He also represented Victoria in 1983.

He acted as a recruiting officer from 1994 to 1998, then was Club runner for several years, including the all-conquering 2000 season.

His father, Fred, played 21 games for Richmond (1951-1953).

Neil Clarke died on 29th March, 2003, aged only 43.