Ken Hands, who earlier this year was inducted as an official Legend of the Carlton Football Club, turns 80 today, Thursday October 26th, 2006. While he turns 80 today, Ken celebrated his birthday last Sunday at his home with the highlight being a moving speech by another Carlton Legend, John Nicholls. His birthday celebrations were attended b around 50 people including family, current and former work mates, friends, neighbours and teammates.Ken Hands is one of the pivotal figures in the proud history of the Carlton Football Club having left an indelible mark on and off the field. A dual premiership player, Club Captain, Coach and Best & Fairest winner he is undoubtedly one of the true ‘father figures’ of the modern Carlton Football Club. Certainly the great John Nicholls is a huge fan and has no hesitation in giving credit to Ken Hands in making him the greatest Carton player of all time.In his speech at Ken’s 80th birthday party John spoke on how Ken had influenced his career from an early age and of the enormous commitment and effort Ken had given to the Carton Football Club over many years, in particular in recruiting. Ken’s son John said the afternoon was a wonderful birthday celebration and all in attendance had a pleasant time.Ken HandsCareer : 1945 - 1957Games : 211Goals : 188Height : 185 cmWeight : 85 kgGuernsey No. 1DOB : October 26, 1926Premiership Player 1945 & 1947Best & Fairest 1953Captain 1952 - 1957Captain of Victoria 1957Carlton Coach 1959-64Carlton Hall of Fame (1988)Carlton Team of the 20th CenturyOfficial Legend of the Carlton Football ClubHappy 80th Birthday to one of Carlton’s greatest ever players and figuresFor more in depth look Ken Hands magnificent career on and off the field at Carlton log onto the Blueseum history page http://www.blueseum.org/cfc/tiki-index.php?page=Ken+Hands