Countdown to Round 1, 2026. Day 23: Essendon Guernsey Number 23

With 23 days to go until Essendon’s Round 1 clash with Hawthorn, Don The Stat continues its daily journey through Essendon’s guernsey history.

Guernsey Number 23 has been worn by some of Essendon’s most durable players and important leaders, spanning the early VFL years through to the present day.

The jumper found its first long-term custodian in Thomas Clarke, who wore #23 from 1927 to 1934, playing 103 games.

Its defining era came through Bill Brittingham, who wore Guernsey Number 23 from 1943 to 1952, playing 172 games and kicking 181 goals. Brittingham was a member of Essendon’s 1946, 1949 and 1950 Premiership teams, playing a major role in the club’s post-war dominance.

The next great chapter belonged to Ken Fraser, who wore #23 from 1958 to 1968, playing 198 games and kicking 157 goals. Fraser captained Essendon’s 1965 Premiership side, having also played in the 1962 Flag, further cementing the jumper’s association with leadership and success.

In more recent times, Mark Bolton (1998–2007, 124 games) and David Myers (2008–2019, 123 games) were long-term custodians of Guernsey Number 23, providing consistency across two different eras.

The current wearer of the jumper is Harry Jones, who has worn #23 since 2021 and will continue into 2026.

Milestone players in Guernsey Number 23

• 50+ games(5) Grant Fowler (56), Peter Hickmott (58), Harry Jones (59), Jack Harrington (64), Peter Cransberg (79)

• 100+ games(3) Thomas Clarke (103), Mark Bolton (124), David Myers (123)

• 150+ games (2) Bill Brittingham (172), Ken Fraser (198)

Guernsey Number 23 stands as a symbol of endurance, leadership, and Premiership impact at the Essendon Football Club.

Next up: Day 22 and Jumper Number 22.