Australian Football

Brother of David Cloke, Peter Cloke was a strong, solid key position player most commonly used at either centre half forward or centre half back. He commenced his league career with Richmond in 1970 but, in just over thee seasons at the club, proved unable to cement a spot in the seniors. His VFL career comprised 28 games and 4 goals. In 1973 he requested, and was granted, a clearance to VFA club Oakleigh, which was where he had played as a junior. In both 1973 and 1974 the Devils made the first division grand final only to lose both times. Nevertheless, Cloke was a highly effective player despite the losses.

In 1975 he transferred to North Adelaide where he would enjoy the most successful phase of his career. In seven seasons with the Roosters he played 145 SANFL games, booting 109 goals, and was a dual club best and fairest winner. In 1979 he finished runner-up in the Magarey Medal voting to Central District’s John Duckworth. After retiring from league football after the 1981 season he embarked on a four year stint as captain-coach of Tatiara League side Bordertown, highlighted by a Mail Medal win in 1982.

Author - John Devaney