Australian Football

Paul Weston was among the most outstanding defenders of his generation, initially at Glenelg, for whom he played 196 league games over ten seasons, then at Essendon where he added another 60 from 1983 to 1985, thirdly with West Torrens whom he captain-coached between 1986 and 1988, adding another 49 senior league appearances to his tally, and finally topped off with a single year stint at Norwood which yielded 23 SANFL games. 

Athletic, immensely mobile, and calm and assured under pressure, Weston was the quintessential big game player, but he was not always blessed with good fortune. In 1974, 1975, 1977, 1981 and 1982 he played in losing Grand Final teams for Glenelg, and after crossing to the VFL he promptly added a sixth such disappointment as the Bombers lost the 1983 Grand Final to Hawthorn. Thankfully, Weston's luck then turned, and in both 1984 and 1985 he was a key contributor to Essendon premiership victories. Other career highlights included club best and fairest awards at Glenelg in 1976 and 1980, the Bays captaincy from 1979 to 1980, and the 1987 West Torrens best and fairest trophy.

Author - John Devaney