Australian Football

After joining Essendon from Ascot Vale Presbyterians, Bill Lowenthal spent a couple of years in the seconds before making his senior VFL debut in 1930. Strong running, tenacious, and an excellent overhead mark, he caught the eye as a centreman initially before finding his true niche as a half back flanker, in which position he had few peers anywhere. He enjoyed a particularly auspicious season in 1933, earning selection in the VFL's Sydney carnival team, and running second in both Essendon's best and fairest trophy and the Brownlow Medal. Had he not missed the last few games of the season he might well have won both awards.

Midway through the 1937 season, after 73 games and 14 goals with Essendon, Lowenthal crossed to Fitzroy where he added a final 13 VFL appearances, plus one goal. He spent the next four seasons with VFA side Preston whom he helped to consecutive fourth place finishes in 1940-41. Between 1942 and 1946, Bill Lowenthal continued to play football of a high standard with the official RAAF team, which he captained for some of that time.

Author - John Devaney