Australian Football

Bryan Quirk was a tall (184 cm), long-kicking wingman who gave Carlton good service, but was somewhat unfortunate with injury. He began his VFL career in 1965 as a half forward flanker, and indeed topped the Blues' goal kicking list that year with 29 goals, but it was after being switched to the wing that he truly excelled. He played in Carlton's 1968 premiership team, and was many people's choice as his team's best in the following season's Grand Final loss to Richmond. He missed both the 1970 and 1972 Grand Finals with injury, however, before being named on the bench in 1973 when the Blues again lost to Richmond.

Bryan Quirk retired in 1975 after playing 167 VFL games and kicking 113 goals. From 1987 to 1989 he coached VFA club Oakleigh where he oversaw a second division premiership win in his second season. He returned for a brief second stint when he replaced Russell Rowe during a disastrous 1992 season that saw the Devils manage just one win from 18 matches en route to the wooden spoon.

Author - John Devaney