ESSENDON will wear a new, predominantly red clash jumper that will honour former champion Tim Watson in four games this season.
The third edition of the heritage clash guernsey, which will be worn in games for the next two seasons, features a new colour scheme with the body of the alternate strip changing from grey to red.
The red sash remains with black borders running along either side, and the jumper bears the names of every Essendon premiership player.
A fan poll chose Watson as the player to be featured in the third edition of the heritage guernsey, following John Coleman and Dick Reynolds.
The club champion played in three flags at the Bombers, won four best and fairests and was a fan favourite throughout his 307-game career.
Watson's name and signature will sit on the left side of the jumper and the inside neck features an image of Watson playing at Essendon's former home ground Windy Hill. The jumper also includes details of his career.
Bombers skipper Brendon Goddard told essendonfc.com.au he was happy with the design.
"We keep the traditional sash which is an important part of the club’s history," Goddard said.
Watson's former teammate and Essendon assistant coach Mark Harvey said Watson was a key reason why the club won the 1984, 85 and 1993 premierships.
"The thing I admired about Tim the most was that he was an inspirational leader on the ground," Harvey said.
"Sheeds lured Tim out of retirement in 1993 for his experience, and with a really young side we went on to win the premiership. Tim provided the team with great leadership, he had the ability to keep the young players in the game, and he just had that calming influence."
The new jumper, worn by David Zaharakis, Brendon Goddard and Mark Baguley. Picture: Essendon FC
A number of historical elements have also been incorporated into the heritage guernsey, including the club’s heritage logo on the rear neck, the year of foundation embroidered on the inside hem and the club’s Latin motto which translates as "Gentle in manner, resolute in deed."
Essendon will wear the heritage guernsey against Port Adelaide in round three, St Kilda in round nine, Fremantle in round 11 and Richmond in round 17.
