Darren Williams – one of the stars of Essendon’s golden era of the 80s - was presented with life membership of the club at Monday night’s Annual General Meeting.
“I am completely honoured and shocked to get this life membership,” Williams said.
“I would like to thank the club and my teammates for creating some of the happiest times in my life.
“I have enjoyed every minute of being a part of this club and I wish the current team all the best for the upcoming season.”
A talented on-baller who had fierce determination, Williams joined Essendon from Vermont. He won the Morrish Medal as the best and fairest player in the VFL under 19s in 1977.
Williams initially struggled to get a senior game and he only played one game off the bench in 1979. He then headed to East Fremantle in Western Australia before returning to the Dons in 1983. He forced his way back into the senior side late in the year and his career blossomed.
Williams became a classy rover with his great skills. He was the rover in the 1984 and 1985 Premiership wins. He was also rover in the 1984 night Premiership side.
He represented Victoria in 1984 and 1985. Unfortunately, he broke his leg and badly injured his ankle early in 1986 which put him out for the rest of the year.
Media doyen and long-time host of the Essendon match day chairman’s function Tony Charlton also received life membership and had the audience in the palm of his hand with a stirring acceptance speech.
Charlton reminisced about the friendships he had formed in football and the wonderful opportunities his career had provided him to meet with some of the most talented athletes the world has seen.
Three other life memberships were presented to trainers that have worked with the club for the past 20 years – Gary Miller, Murray Spargo and Craig Yorston.
Watch the 2010 membership video clip by clicking here or become a member by clicking here (and receive a $20 Bomber Shop e-voucher and go into the running for a Caltex Vortex Premium Fuels voucher valued at $2,500).
