Australian Football

Geoff Gosper was an underrated player at Essendon between 1960 and 1970 playing a total of 168 VFL games and kicking 68 goals. Recruited from Strathmore under seventeens he commenced with the Bomber thirds in 1957 but his progress was stuttering and early in 1960 he returned to Strathmore and sought a clearance to Fitzroy. The matter was ultimately resolved to everyone's satisfaction and Gosper finally made his debut later that same year.

Lightly built at 175cm and 78kg Gosper belied his slight frame by demonstrating plenty of pluck and tenacity. He was also quite a clever footballer who knew how to find the ball, and whose use of it was usually effective. Capable of playing any flank or pocket position or as a rover he once put together 114 consecutive senior grade appearances. When the Dons downed Carlton in the 1962 grand final he was named as a reserve, while three years later when St Kilda was overcome in the year's decisive match he was one of his team's best playing on a half forward flank.

In 1969 Gosper won Essendon's most consistent player award and the following year he was voted best utility.

After leaving the Bombers he played initially for Waverley in 1971-2 before joining Oakleigh Districts whom he captain-coached from 1973 to 1975. His last port of call was Box Hill in 1976.

After retiring as a player Geoff Gosper remained involved in football by working for a time as a radio commentator. In 1987 he was appointed captain-coach of Victoria's Super Rules team.

Author - John Devaney