Australian Football

Highly courageous and relentlessly hard at the ball, despite his small (175cm, 72kg) stature, Elton Plummer gave Essendon consistently reliable service in 141 VFL games in 1934 and between 1936 and 1944. He played for most of his career as a back pocket, and the fact that he was a ‘stay at home’ type is clearly evidenced by the his career goal tally of one. In his very first game he played on the wing and failed to touch the ball all match. Ultimately, however, he epitomised dependability and assurance.

The undoubted highlight of Plummer’s career was helping the Bombers down Richmond in the 1942 grand final. He also took part in the losing grand finals of 1941 and 1943.

Prior to commencing with Essendon Plummer had played in the VFA with Preston and he resumed his VFA involvement after leaving the Dons by captain-coaching first Brunswick and then Coburg.

Author - John Devaney