Australian Football

Melbourne recruited John Howat from Mentone thirds and he commenced with the Demons reserves in 1988, before making his debut with the seniors the following year. He quickly proved himself a highly adaptable player, although whether this was more of a blessing than a curse is debatable. At any rate, over the course of a five season stint with the Dees he only made 20 senior appearances, kicking 10 goals.

The next phase of Howat’s career took place at Richmond where he finally managed to achieve regular senior selection. Playing mainly at full back, he was tough and resolute, always ready to put his body on the line, and his distribution skills were first rate. When Robert Walls took over from John Northey as Tigers coach in 1996, however, he largely fell out of favour, and he was de-listed at the end of the year.

Author - John Devaney