Australian Football

Dave Smith was a brilliant all-rounder who played in virtually every position on the field for Essendon, and who captained the club's 1911 flag-winning side. Earlier, prior to the arrival of Jack Worrall, he had occupied a role at the club which might reasonably be described as bearing virtually all the hallmarks of a coach, although the actual term was not then in vogue. 

A powerful and clever player, he was strong in the air, fleet of foot, and was particularly noted for his superb kicking. Nicknamed 'Soaker', Dave Smith was a member of the VFL's 1911 carnival team, and played a total of 142 games for the Dons between 1903 and 1911, and in 1913. He later played one game for Richmond before retiring.

He was also an excellent cricketer, and his selection in Australia's Test team to tour England in 1912 robbed him of the chance of playing in back to back premierships.

Author - John Devaney