This image, featuring newly-appointed coach James Hird, flanked by 300+ gamer Dustin Fletcher and captain Jobe Watson, captures just how deep the red and black bloodline runs. It is also a symbol of the amazing contribution made to the Club by these three men and their families.
With the exception of two seasons (1946, 1947), there has been at least one member of the Fletcher, Hird and Watson families serving the Club as either a player, coach or committeeman since 1940.
Together, these men and their families have given more than 100 years of service between them, played a total of 85 seasons, a total of 1404 games, kicked 848 goals, won 13 best and fairest, one Brownlow medal and captained the Club for 16 seasons.
And of course there is plenty more to come.
Is the Essendon blood in your veins? Register for a membership today for your chance to win lunch with the new coach.
