Australian Football

After initially playing mostly across half back Keith Drinan developed into a tough, highly effective full back, capable of keeping even the very best full forwards on a tight leash. He may have lacked polish, but there could be no questioning his dedication and strength of will. He began with St Kilda in 1946 and, after a stuttering start to his league career, was a regular in the side by 1948.

During his career Drinan achieved virtually everything available to him except the joy of playing in a premiership team. Captain of the Saints for a total of five seasons, he was also a dual best and fairest (1953 and 1956) and represented Victoria in the interstate arena 8 times. He ended his VFL career in 1957 having played 135 games without registering a single goal. In 1961 he was appointed coach of Yarraville and promptly steered the side to the grand final, which they duly won. However, Keith Drinan did not get to savour the joy of the triumph as he was away on business.

Author - John Devaney