Sean Denham

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Sean Denham (born April 29, 1969) is a former Australian rules footballer.

Recruited from Melton South Denham was an unheralded rover, who came to Essendon from Geelong in a swap that saw ruckman John Barnes sent the other way following the 1991 season. His style of play as a tagging run-with player, typified during the 90's the changing face of the modern game. Despite playing a negating brand of football, his game wasn't one dimensional as he was also complimented with an ability to gather hard ball possessions and setting up many dashing forward attacks from the midfield. His versatility placed him amongst the fan favourites at Essendon, yet due to his unobtrusive, workmanlike style he went mostly unnoticed by the media and opposition. Despite having a small stature, Denham's tough approach and ability to verbally rile his opponent, coupled with his tagging role sparked a massive on-field rivalry with fiery Carlton rover Greg Williams during the 90's.

After a spate of poor form and injuries after the club's successful 2000 season, aged 31 he decided to retire. Ironically he and Barnes would play alongside each other during that premiership season. During his 132 games for the Bombers, he played a fundamental role in the 1993 premiership side and was the club's best and fairest, winning the 1997 Crichton Medal.

Preceded by: James Hird

Essendon Best and Fairest winner 1997

Succeeded by: Damien Hardwick