The GOAT of AFL by Each Decade

The Australian Football League (AFL) has been graced by countless legends over its long history. While naming the single greatest player of all time (GOAT) can spark endless debate, breaking it down by decade allows us to celebrate the best players of their respective eras. Here’s a look at the GOATs of each decade and some notable mentions who left a lasting legacy on the game.

1900s: Albert Thurgood

Albert Thurgood was one of the earliest superstars of Australian Rules Football. Known for his remarkable goal-kicking ability and versatility, he was a dominant force for Essendon and later Fremantle.

Notable Mentions:

• Jack Leith (Melbourne): A consistent performer who was instrumental in Melbourne’s early success.

• Fred McGinis (Essendon): Revered for his skills and leadership on the field.

1910s: Dave McNamara

A towering forward, Dave McNamara was known for his incredible high marks and long-distance kicking. Playing for St Kilda, he was a spectacle to watch.

Notable Mentions:

• Vic Cumberland (Melbourne): A powerful ruckman who played into his 40s.

• Roy Cazaly (St Kilda/South Melbourne): The inspiration behind the phrase “Up There Cazaly.”

1920s: Ivor Warne-Smith

Ivor Warne-Smith won two Brownlow Medals (1926 and 1928) playing for Melbourne. His skill, consistency, and leadership helped the Demons secure premiership success.

Notable Mentions:

• Syd Coventry (Collingwood): Captain of the legendary Collingwood team that won four consecutive premierships.

• Gordon Coventry (Collingwood): One of the greatest goal-kickers of all time.

1930s: Haydn Bunton Sr.

Haydn Bunton Sr. is the epitome of brilliance in AFL history. A triple Brownlow Medalist (1931, 1932, 1935) with Fitzroy, his skills and sportsmanship were unmatched.

Notable Mentions:

• Dick Reynolds (Essendon): A three-time Brownlow Medal winner and one of the greatest captains.

• Jack Dyer (Richmond): Known as “Captain Blood,” his toughness and leadership were legendary.

1940s: Dick Reynolds

Although he began his dominance in the 1930s, Dick Reynolds continued to shine in the 1940s. A true icon of the Essendon Football Club.

Notable Mentions:

• Bill Hutchison (Essendon): An incredible midfielder with seven premierships.

• Lou Richards (Collingwood): A tenacious and influential player who later became a media legend.

1950s: John Coleman

John Coleman was a sensational full-forward for Essendon, whose career was tragically cut short by injury. His goal-scoring record remains awe-inspiring.

Notable Mentions:

• Ted Whitten (Footscray): Known as “Mr. Football,” he was a brilliant player and tactician.

• Ron Barassi Sr. (Melbourne): A courageous and inspirational leader.

1960s: Ron Barassi Jr.

Ron Barassi Jr. revolutionized the game as a player and later as a coach. His leadership and innovation with Melbourne and Carlton left an indelible mark on AFL.

Notable Mentions:

• Polly Farmer (Geelong): A ruck genius who transformed the role with his handballing skills.

• Kevin Murray (Fitzroy): A Brownlow Medalist and loyal servant of the Lions.

1970s: Leigh Matthews

Leigh Matthews, dubbed “Lethal Leigh,” was a powerhouse forward/midfielder for Hawthorn. His physicality and goal sense were unmatched.

Notable Mentions:

• Keith Greig (North Melbourne): A two-time Brownlow Medalist with elegance and flair.

• Peter Hudson (Hawthorn): One of the most prolific goal-kickers in history.

1980s: Kevin Bartlett

Kevin Bartlett’s longevity and knack for goal-scoring made him a standout. Playing over 400 games for Richmond, his achievements are remarkable.

Notable Mentions:

• Gary Ablett Sr. (Hawthorn/Geelong): A freakishly talented forward who dazzled crowds.

• Tony Lockett (St Kilda): The highest goal-scorer in VFL/AFL history.

1990s: Wayne Carey

Wayne Carey, often called “The King,” was a dominant presence for North Melbourne. His marking, strength, and football IQ made him a once-in-a-generation player.

Notable Mentions:

• Nathan Buckley (Collingwood): A supremely skilled midfielder and leader.

• James Hird (Essendon): A brilliant and versatile match-winner.

• Michael Voss (Brisbane): A tough and inspirational leader who set the standard for excellence.

2000s: Chris Judd

Chris Judd’s explosive speed and elite ball-handling earned him Brownlow Medals with both West Coast and Carlton. A true champion of the modern era.

Notable Mentions:

• Adam Goodes (Sydney): A dual Brownlow Medalist and an icon of the game.

• Gary Ablett Jr. (Geelong/Gold Coast): One of the most complete midfielders in AFL history.

• Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin (Hawthorn/Sydney): A generational talent and one of the greatest forwards of all time.

• Dane Swan (Collingwood): A hard-running midfielder with a Brownlow Medal and consistent excellence.

2010s: Dustin Martin

Dustin Martin’s dominance in big games, including three Norm Smith Medals in Richmond’s premiership wins, solidifies him as the standout player of the decade.

Notable Mentions:

• Nat Fyfe (Fremantle): A dual Brownlow Medalist with incredible versatility.

• Patrick Dangerfield (Geelong): A midfield powerhouse with game-breaking ability.

Each decade has given us stars who pushed the boundaries of greatness and redefined the game. Whether through their skill, leadership, or sheer presence, these players have cemented their place in AFL history. Who do you think should be on this list?