Essendon Guernsey Number 14 - Countdown to Round 1, 2026
- Don TheStat
- Feb 27
- 1 min read
With 14 days remaining until Essendon opens its 2026 season, the Don The Stat Guernsey Countdown continues with Number 14.
Guernsey 14 first appeared in Essendon colours during the 1911 finals series, worn by Paddy Shea, who went on to be part of Essendon’s 1911 Premiership team.
One of the earliest long-term wearers was Charlie May, who played 83 games between 1922 and 1926, including Premiership success in 1923 and 1924.
The number’s strongest historical association came through Chris Lambert (brother of Harold who wore #17). Chris wore 14 across the 1940s, playing 117 games and featuring in Essendon’s 1942, 1946 and 1950 Premiership sides.
During the 1960s, Russell Blew became a fixture in the jumper, playing 125 games and winning Premierships in 1962 and 1965.
In the AFL era, Jason Johnson defined Guernsey 14. From 1999 to 2008, Johnson played 173 games, kicked 107 goals, and was a vital member of the 2000 Premiership team.
The number is currently worn by Jordan Ridley, who has surpassed 100 games in the jumper and continues to add to its legacy.
Milestone Players in Guernsey Number 14
50+ games
Charlie May (83)
Len Johnson (61)
Stan Wilson (75)
Jim Heenan (82)
Tony Elshaug (65)
David Calthorpe (79)
Sam Lonergan (59)
100+ games
Chris Lambert (117)
Russell Blew (125)
Jordan Ridley (104)
150+ games
Jason Johnson (173)
Guernsey Number 14 has been worn by Premiership players, durable servants, and modern stars — a number that continues to carry weight at Essendon.

Next up: Day 13 and Guernsey Number 13.


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