Darrel John Baldock

'Mr. Magic' or simply 'Doc' first represented Tasmania as a schoolboy in 1952 and as Captain in 1953. He made his debut with N.W.F.U. club East Devonport in the first game of the 1955 season, at the age of 16.

An instant sensation he gained selection in the N.W.F.U. intrastate team after only three games and played for Tasmania the following season, at just 18 years of age. 'Doc' annually won East's best and fairest before joining Latrobe as Captain/Coach in 1959. At 20 he was Tasmania's youngest ever Captain, when he led the team against South Australia in 1960.

His move to the V.F.L. in 1962 was another instant success. St. Kilda fans could hardly believe that this man, who lacked height, pace and hair, could be the 'Dazzling Darrel' they had heard about. He played 126 games with the Saints from 1962 to 1968, captaining the club from 1963 to 1968, and led it to its only premiership in 1966.

After winning numerous Victorian accolades he captained that state in 1966/67 and was named captain of the 1966 All-Australian team - his second All-Australia blazer.

Baldock returned to Tasmania to captain/coach Latrobe from 1969 to 1974 and started another golden era. His prize winning record continued in his home state. Latrobe's four straight premierships from 1969 to 1972 set a new N.W.F.U. record. He again captained Tasmania in 1971 and was non-playing coach from 1973 to 1975.

Following his entry into parliament in 1974, he retired from the field. But football was ever in his blood and in 1987 he was enticed, as coach, back to his old club St. Kilda.