MADDEN, Justin

Justin Madden was a giant ruckman from Airport West. The biggest man in League football at the time, he had plenty of ability and his height made him difficult to counter, especially on the forward line where he was a strong mark.

As a young footballer he had been selected in the Under 17 Victorian national championship team in 1977. The team included five more future Essendon players: Peter Light, Glenn Hawker, Roger Merrett, Michael Sheldon and Craig Barbary.

He was selected in the State side in 1981 and 1982 and was in the ruck in the 1981 night premiership team. He also won the Club's Most Determined Player award in 1982.

However with his brother Simon also a ruckman at Essendon, Justin was competing with him for the number 1 ruck spot.

Justin felt his opportunities at Essendon were limited by Simon's presence and he successfully sought a clearance to Carlton. It was a move that worked for both men. Justin had a magnificant career at Carlton playing 287 games there over 14 seasons, winning a Best and Fairest award and playing in two premiership sides.

He retired in July 1997, and took over the presidency of the AFL Players' Association from Simon. He had trained as a teacher but later became an architect. He entered State politics in 1999 and served as Minister in several portfolios in Labor Governments.

Madden's brother, Simon, is one of Essendon's greatest-ever players.Their brother, Paul, was a talented Under 19s player, but was not interested in a senior career.

Essendon and Carlton agreed to name future games between the clubs the Madden Cup, in honour of the two brothers.

Justin Madden was awarded AFL Life membership in 1995.