“Without a heart you don’t win.”

Those were the sentiments Western Bulldogs Legend Charlie Sutton gave to a crowded room of Bulldog faithful at the inaugural 2010 Hall of Fame event.

His passion and loyalty to the Western Bulldogs Football Club touched the heart of many as he spoke - in that moment you could see just how he led the 1954 s quad to the Dogs’ first Premiership as Captain - Coach.

Watch Charlie Sutton's speech from the inaugural Western Bulldogs Hall of Fame Event on the media player above or the Club Mobile App.

As the first man inducted into the Western Bulldogs Hall of Fame as a Legend, he will forever remain an integral part of the Club’s history and it was obvious that the football Club meant just as much to him now as it did when he donned the Red White and Blue hoops.

Sutton’s playing career spanned 1942, 1946-56 while he was Captain-Coach from 1951-56 and continued on to coach one more year in 1957. He then returned to the coaching role from 1967-68.

The epitome of a Club man and team player Sutton went on to act as president from 1978-81. His influence on the Club has resulted in the Best and Fairest award being named after him.

The below is an excerpt from Charlie Sutton’s speech at the 2010 Hall of Fame event. 

I feel that I am very lucky to be in the Hall of Fame - when I look at all those great players that went before me and the great players that are playing today I think I am very fortunate to be the chosen one.

It has always been a great thrill to be able to do anything for the Footscray Football Club.

That bloody [Harry] Hickey he was a wonderful player, he could do anything with the ball and he would be right up in his element today. “Dolly” Aked, Normy Ware, all those fellas - Alby Morrison he was one of those fellas, beautiful left footer. You should have seen them. They were marvellous. And I feel really honoured to be classed even up there with them.

It is not actually the player that I like watching the most, it is the teamwork that they have got in their side.

There is more in football than just football, you’ve got to have plenty of guts, plenty of determination… without a heart you don’t win.

Hit them hard, hit them often, make sure it’s the Footscray Football Club.

Who will be the third Legend inducted into the Bulldogs Hall of Fame? Make sure you secure your spot for this year's Western Bulldogs Hall of Fame Event to find out. For more information or to book, click here.