Australian Football

The oldest of four brothers to play league football for Melbourne, Ted Cordner was also, in some people's opinion, the most talented, but his medical career restricted him to just 52 senior games in six seasons. Extremely powerful, and boasting good pace despite his hefty, 188cm, 89kg frame, he was also - unlike his brothers - a more than useful kick. 

He joined Melbourne in 1941, having played previously with University Blacks, and at the end of the year helped his side to a 29 point grand final win over Essendon. On the personal front, his form had been exceptional all season, although Allan La Fontaine somewhat surprisingly won the Fuchsias' best and fairest player award.

After a 1943 season during which his form was once again outstanding, Ted Cordner only managed sporadic league appearances owing to his work as a naval doctor. However, he did manage one interstate match for the VFL in 1946, and he rounded off his VFL career with a solid performance at centre half back in that year's losing Grand Final against Essendon. He then returned to the VAFA with Old Melburnians.

Author - John Devaney