Australian Football

Solidly built and tough, David Calthorpe may have struggled with some of the game's key skills, notably kicking, but when on form there were fewer more effective taggers in the game. A prime case in point was the 1993 grand final when he played a major part in Essendon's victory by nullifying the impact of Carlton superstar Craig Bradley. This was one of 92 AFL appearances Calthorpe made for the Bombers between 1992 and 1998, during which he booted 58 goals. He also represented Victoria during this phase of his career, winning the Whitten Medal as the Big V's best performer against South Australia in 1994.

In 1999 Calthorpe switched to Brisbane but endured a horror year during which he managed just nine games and two goals. Crossing to the Kangaroos in 2000 he seemed to be rediscovering his best form only to lose his way during the second half of the season. He remained on the Kangas' list in 2001 but did not add to the 13 games and 10 goals registered the previous year.

Author - John Devaney