Before each home game Crazy John’s helps Collingwood present one of its greats to the Magpie Army.
David Cloke
Games: 114
Vice-captain: 1983-1987
Third in Copeland Trophy: 1984
Brownlow Medal runner-up: 1984
Today, we are delighted to honour David Cloke, one of the most popular personalities at Victoria Park during the1980s.
Cloke came to Collingwood in controversial circumstances in 1983 after leaving Richmond, where he had played 176 games, mainly at centre half-forward, and was captain the previous year. Eager to face new challenges, his aim was to help the Magpies break their premiership drought.
Cloke’s value to Collingwood could never be disputed. His lion-hearted performances in the ruck, a position he wasn’t familiar with, earnt him the respect of the black-and-white faithful.
Although shorter in stature than many ruckman of the day, Cloke made up for it in experience, heart, superb judgment and great use of his body. He was rarely beaten in ruck duels and often negated his opponent’s impact on the game.
Cloke was equally valuable at centre-half forward. He had strong hands and could take marks in pressure situations, but was also capable of knocking the ball away from marking contests for his teammates to run on to.
He was the ultimate professional. His work ethic was admired by all, as was his dedication to the club off the field.
In a surprise move, he was made vice-captain on his arrival and his wholehearted performances more than justified the appointment.
Cloke was admired by all his teammates. “I have never played with a greater professional,” Tony Shaw said, while Peter Daicos remembers his as a “real team leader and a great character”.
The Cloke legacy remains at Victoria Park with sons Jason and Cameron proudly wearing the black-and-white stripes. Both carry traits of their famous dad, giving their all to Collingwood on and off the field.
Although Cloke had returned to Richmond during the 1990 premiership year, his desperation and motivation to get the team to that position was never questioned.
Today, we pay tribute to David Cloke, one of Collingwood’s most dedicated footballers, who always gave 100 per cent.
