Day 10: Essendon Guernsey Number 10

Don TheStat
3 days ago
2 min read

With 10 days remaining until Essendon opens its 2026 season, the Don The Stat Guernsey Countdown reaches one of the most revered jumpers in football — Number 10.

Guernsey 10 was first worn by Jack Kirby during the 1911 finals series, the year Essendon introduced jumper numbers. Kirby was part of the 1911 Premiership side, immediately embedding the number in club folklore.

The number gained early stability through Dan Hanley, a 1912 Premiership player, before becoming synonymous with John Coleman.

Coleman wore Guernsey 10 between 1949 and 1954, playing 98 games and kicking 537 goals. His achievements include 12 goals on debut, five consecutive league goalkicking titles, and selection at Full Forward in both Essendon and AFL Teams of the Century. Coleman later returned as coach, guiding Essendon to Premierships in 1962 and 1965.

The jumper continued its rich tradition through Ian “Bluey” Shelton, whose courageous return from a career-threatening eye injury saw him play in the 1965 Premiership side, and Alan “Lurch” Noonan, who sits fourth on the all-time VFL/AFL goals list.

In the modern era, Garry Foulds, Gary O’Donnell, and Mark McVeigh ensured Guernsey 10 remained synonymous with excellence, leadership and durability.

The number is currently worn by Isaac Kako, who debuted in 2025.