Australian Football

David Polkinghorne was an important if comparatively unsung member of Hawthorn’s powerful 1970s combinations. His twin career highlights were helping the Hawks to grand final triumphs over North Melbourne in 1976 and 1978. A defender who liked to stick close to his man he had an unkempt kicking style but it was surprisingly effective. His VFL career with Hawthorn comprised 164 games between 1975 and 1984 during which he booted 10 goals.

David Polkinghorne attracted headlines in 1982 when he affirmed that Carlton opponent Wayne Johnston had struck him during a match, thereby breaching the so called ‘code of silence’. Johnston was found guilty and suspended.

Author - John Devaney