Australian Football

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One of four brothers to play for Melbourne, Don Cordner began his senior football career with Melbourne University, and made his VFL debut for the Fuchsias in the 1941 second semi final against Carlton. A fortnight later he had the distinction of appearing in a premiership team in only his second league match as Melbourne overcame the Grand Final challenge of Essendon by 29 points. 

Strong, solid, tireless and dependable, Don Cordner played most of his ten season, 166-game VFL career as a follower resting in defence. He captained Melbourne in 1948-9 and was a VFL representative in both years. His most satisfying all round season was undoubtedly 1948 when he not only skippered his club to a flag but earned himself a Brownlow Medal to boot. 

Somewhat surprisingly, however, he failed to land Melbourne's 1948 club champion award, that honour falling to Jack Mueller. Cordner had previously won the award himself in 1943. During the 2000 season, Don Cordner was selected, along with his younger brother Denis, in Melbourne's official 'Team of the Twentieth Century'.

Author - John Devaney