Australian Football

Capable of handballing accurately over distances approaching 50 metres, John Klug was a dynamic and explosive midfielder and forward who arguably under-achieved given the extent of his ability. After working his way through the ranks at Glenorchy he made his senior debut as a 17 year old in a 1983 season which was capped by successes at both personal and team level. The personal achievement was the Magpies’ best and fairest award, while the team success was a resounding 28.19 to 14.11 grand final defeat of New Norfolk, a triumph to which Klug contributed four goals.

In 1984 and 1985 Klug attempted to break into the VFL with Richmond, but after failing to escape the reserves he returned to Glenorchy in 1986 and promptly took part in another winning grand final. On a day which saw the Magpies go top in all four grades Klug was best afield with 31 telling disposals in the seniors’ 14.20 to 9.18 triumph over Sandy Bay. He continued with Glenorchy in 1987 before joining SANFL club Woodville the following year. The highlight of his time with the Warriors was winning their 1990 best and fairest award, a success which no doubt contributed to his selection in the inaugural squad of fledgling AFL club Adelaide.

In 1991 Klug enjoyed a fine season with the Crows, playing 20 games, mostly at centre half forward against much bigger and more powerful opponents. After such a promising start it was extremely disappointing that his career at the top level was brought to a peremptory end the following year by a serious knee injury. He had played 26 games and kicked 34 goals for Adelaide to add to the roughly 100 appearances made for Glenorchy and the 23 games for Woodville. He later coached successfully with Mayne, Glenorchy and Old Hobartians Association, for whom he donned the boots in around 60 matches.

Author - John Devaney