Melbourne/Fremantle - Phil Gilbert

This week we go back in time with former Melbourne and Fremantle defender Phil Gilbert. Phil reminisces about his career, reflects on some of special moments during his time in the game.

Drafted from Claremont in the WAFL, Phil was selected by Melbourne with pick 19 in the 1991 AFL Draft and played predominantly as a defender. He spent three seasons with the Demons, playing 25 games before making the move west to Fremantle.

Phil is perhaps best remembered as the player traded by Melbourne to Fremantle in exchange for a draft pick in 1994, which was later used to recruit a 17-year-old Jeff Farmer.

He was also part of history, lining up as one of the original players in the Fremantle Dockers’ first ever AFL game against Richmond. Phil went on to spend two seasons with the Dockers, adding a further 14 games to his AFL career.

In this episode, Phil talks about his time at the Dees and playing under Neil Balme, the early days of the Fremantle Dockers, and some of his most memorable moments at the club. He also reflects on his time as part of the coaching staff at the Peel Thunder, including the famous moment when coach Garry Hocking instructed all players to start behind the ball at a center bounce.

A great listen with the 120th member of 'The 90's Club Footy Podcast'.