The Best of Michael Hurley

What can we say about Michael Hurley? Drafted to Essendon in 2008 as a key defender, he spent the majority of his early seasons as a key forward, with his marking and goal-scoring ability (particularly from long range) delighting Bombers fans again and again.

From the 2014 season he was moved into his original defensive position and this is arguably where he shone brightest, earning All-Australian selection in 2015 and 2017, and becoming one of the big defensive forces in the league, regularly nullifying the impact of the Franklins, Riewoldts and Kennedys of the AFL. He was very unlucky not to win at least one best & fairest in that period.

The man affectionately known as the ‘Bear’ was a true warrior for the Essendon Football Club during some dark times, and sadly he enjoyed very little team success. He missed all of 2016 as part of the doping sanctions, and essentially didn’t feature during his final two league seasons following on from a horrific leg infection prior to 2021. Tragically this all combined to rob him of the chance to reach 200 games.

But like the warrior he was, he was able to get himself up for one final farewell game against Richmond in his 194th match, kicking a goal with his final kick in footy. Hurls was always a fan favourite and will always remain so, and this package is a tribute to his wonderful career. Thanks for the memories, Bear. You will be missed!

(Thanks again to my brother for his awesome intro design!)

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