Essendon has wished 1962 premiership player Barry Capuano a happy 80th birthday.

On behalf of the entire Essendon family, the club would like to wish Barry Capuano a very happy 80th birthday. 

As a premiership player, administrator, loyal servant and volunteer, Barry has dedicated more than 62 years of service to the club, which is recognised by his status as a life member and member of the Essendon Hall of Fame. 

In his current role as President of the Essendon Football Club Past Players & Officials Association, ‘Cappy’ continues to work tirelessly in supporting past players and assisting the club to protect the heritage and culture of the Bombers’ 150 year history. 

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BTV: Hall of Fame - Barry Capuano

Hall of Fame inductee Barry Capuano.

Essendon Legend Kevin Sheedy acknowledged Barry on behalf of the red and black for reaching a milestone birthday. 

 “On behalf of everyone in the Essendon family, we extend our warm wishes to Barry on his birthday and hope for him a very happy and healthy year ahead,” Sheedy said.

“Barry has been a key part of the fabric of our club from his arrival in 1958 at Windy Hill, and ever since, his contribution has been significant as a player, administrator and servant in a variety of roles.

“People like Barry are crucial to our club retaining and honouring our long and proud history. He has been and continues to be a tremendous servant of our football club. 

“We hope Barry has a wonderful day celebrating a key milestone birthday, surrounded by his loved ones and maybe even with a red and black themed cake!” 

Barry Capuano career highlights

  • Career span: 1959-1966 - 118 games, 16 goals
  • Finals appearances: seven
  • EFC guernsey numbers: No. 47 (1957-59) & No.12 (1960-66) 
  • EFC player No.709
  • EFC debut: Round 12, 1959 v Carlton at Windy Hill. Aged 18 years, 234 days
  • 1959 Grand Final team member v Melbourne. Essendon 11 12 (78) v Melbourne 17 13 (115)
  • 1962 premiership player. Essendon 13 12 (90) v Carlton 8 10 (58)
  • 1963 Victorian state of origin representative
  • Last game: Round 12, 1966 v Geelong at Kardinia Park

Committee member and administrator roles

  • 1974-1976: Essendon Football Club, committee member
  • 1981-1988: Essendon Football Club, general manager
  • 2000: EFC PP&OA committee member
  • 2001 - 2009: EFC PP&OA secretary
  • 2010 - current: EFC PP&OA President

Awards

  • 1975 - Admitted as a life member of the Essendon Football Club
  • 2009 - Awarded life membership of the EFC PP&OA
  • 2014 - Inducted into the Essendon Hall of Fame