Darryl Gerlach was a local boy who arrived at Essendon Football Club in 1963 from Strathmore. He made his debut in round 15 that year against Carlton at Windy Hill and played four games in his debut season.
The following year Darryl Gerlach quickly established himself as an Essendon regular and played in all but two games. He quickly found his niche as a back pocket player where over 168 games in 10 seasons, he went on to play his best football. By the late 1960s Darryl
Gerlach he was the best back pocket player in the League.
Darryl Gerlach was a dependable, had speed and fine judgment. He was also a strong mark and a good clearing kick.
He was in the back pocket in Essendon's 1965 premiership side and was runner-up in Essendon's best and fairest award in 1966 and then won the award in 1970.
Darryl Gerlach was selected in the Victorian state side in 1967, 1968 and 1969 and was Essendon’s second highest Brownlow medal vote-getter in 1967 and was third top in 1968.
He also won Essendon's outstanding services award in 1966 and the most courageous player award in 1971.
After four years away, Darryl Gerlach returned to Windy Hill in 1977 as a zone recruiter beginning another two decades of service.
He served the club in roles as varied as recruiting, match committee, football operations, drafting and list management, finance and auditing. He was also club vice president for 12 years.
We induct Darryl Gerlach as a Member of the Essendon Hall of Fame.
