You decide between the following four Essendon greats:
Norm McDonald was one of Essendon's greatest half back flankers, he was amongst the fastest footballers to play in that position. An aboriginal, he had remarkable natural ability and balance. He took risks and when on-song his blistering pace made him almost unstoppable. He could turn defence into attack in a moment and his superb ball handling and skill meant he hurt opposition sides when he got the football. McDonald played 128 games for the Bombers – the highlight being his two premierships in 1949 and 1950 and his Best and Fairest in 1951.
Dustin Fletcher joined Essendon as a 17-year-old in the 1993 premiership year and rose to fame immediately. He received not only the Essendon Best First Year Player, but the AFL Player's Association Best First Year Player. He quickly became an integral part of the Essendon backline, fitting into the role of full back.After being a major contributor in 1997 and 1998 Fletcher had a brilliant year in 2000 as he established himself as one of the defensive stars of the competition. Fletcher won the 2000 Crichton Medal, an All-Australian selection and was a member of the winning Grand Final side.
Barry Davis was part of one of Essendon's greatest ever half back lines with Alex Epis and Ian Shelton, and ultimately became a top ruck-rover where he displayed his talents all over the field. He won the best and fairest award in 1968, 1969 and 1971 and starred on the half back flank in the 1962 and 1965 premiership wins. Davis was a dasher, always ready to charge down-field to place the ball right into attack. He was cool under pressure and had a good combination of pace and strength with outstanding natural talent. He was a brilliant mark and one of the best kicks in the game. Davis played 218 games for the Bombers.
Gavin Wanganeen only played 127 games for the Bombers before returning to play for Port Adelaide – however, was an integral part of Essendon’s line-up during that time. Wanganeen was a key member of the 1993 premiership side and also won the Brownlow medal in the same year. Other achievements include state honors for South Australia in 1992, 1993, 1994 and 1995 against Victoria. He received All-Australian honors in 1992, 1993 and 1995 and was named young Aboriginal Sports Star of the Year in 1993.
Don't forget that each week you vote you will have the chance to win great prizes. One lucky voter - randomly selected - will win two tickets to the Champions Of Essendon Dinner at Crown Palladium, a copy of Champions of Essendon - the book and a $50 gift voucher for the Bomber Shop. Weekly winners will be announced on the website and contacted by the club.
There are even greater prizes up for grabs for our overall winner at the end of the season. One lucky voter will receive two tickets to the Champions of Essendon Dinner, a leatherbound edition of Champions of Essendon - the book and a framed, Essendon guernsey signed by all the Champions of Essendon - a simply magnificent collectors item.
To vote call 1902 245 049 or go to the Champions page on the BomberLand website for the chance to win great prizes! (Initial call cost 50 cents, cost vary throughout. Higher mp/pp).
