It’s always special to see an AFL club re-adopt their former team name for a special occassion. Playing a home game against Collingwood certainly warrants doing so. Let’s take a look back at the greatest Western Bulldogs/Footscray players to don the blue, red and white guernsey.
The Western Bulldogs, formerly known as Footscray, have a proud history filled with legendary players who have left a lasting impact on the club and the AFL as a whole. Few names resonate more deeply with the club’s identity than Ted Whitten, affectionately known as “Mr. Football.” Playing from 1951 to 1970, Whitten was not just a brilliant footballer, but a larger-than-life figure whose leadership and passion helped define an era. He played 321 games and was both a champion player and captain-coach, renowned for his toughness, vision, and unmatched loyalty to the club. His legacy still looms large over Whitten Oval, where the club continues to honor his memory.
Another icon of the Bulldogs is Chris Grant, who played from 1990 to 2007. A versatile key position player, Grant was a model of consistency and class. He played 341 games and was widely respected for his football smarts and clean skills. Despite narrowly missing out on a Brownlow Medal due to suspension, he is considered one of the club’s most talented players. Scott West, who played 324 games between 1993 and 2008, is another standout. A champion midfielder, West won an astonishing seven Charles Sutton Medals for Best and Fairest, showcasing his dominance across more than a decade. Known for his elite handballing and relentless work rate, he was one of the most effective and underrated players of his time.
Brad Johnson, the club’s all-time games record holder with 364 appearances, was the face of the Bulldogs through the late ’90s and 2000s. Known for his goal sense, leadership, and infectious energy, Johnson was a six-time All-Australian and three-time Best and Fairest winner. Doug Hawkins also holds a special place in the hearts of fans. A brilliant wingman who played 329 games between 1978 and 1994, Hawkins was known for his flair, footy IQ, and strong connection to the working-class roots of the club.
The club also boasts several Brownlow Medallists, including Norm Ware in 1941, Peter Box in 1956, John Schultz in 1960, Gary Dempsey in 1975, Tony Liberatore in 1990, and Adam Cooney in 2008. Each of these players brought their own brilliance to the game and contributed to the club’s rich heritage.
In more recent times, Marcus Bontempelli has emerged as one of the Bulldogs’ greatest ever. Debuting in 2014, he has already cemented his place among the elite with multiple All-Australian selections, several Best and Fairest awards, and a key role in the club’s 2016 premiership – their first since 1954. He continues to lead the team with poise and class. That 2016 flag remains one of the most remarkable finals campaigns in AFL history, with heroes like Easton Wood, Tom Boyd, Liam Picken, Dale Morris, and Jason Johannisen stepping up when it mattered most. Although Bob Murphy missed out on that grand final through injury, his leadership and influence during that era were immense.
The Bulldogs’ history is filled with heart, grit, and unforgettable talent. From legends of the past to the stars of today, the club has been blessed with champions who embody the true spirit of the red, white, and blue.
