In 1986, the return to South from Central Districts of Peter Mackereth and Brett Riggs who had performed admirably in the SANFL reserves and under 19s was a big turning point in the club's success. The likeable pair had made many friends at the Bulldogs, and several players came back with them to strengthen our ranks. One of whom was a football prodigy with outstanding skills, Eddie Schwerdt.

Originally from Salisbury West via Central District - brother of Adelaide Crow, Stephen and 1990 Mail Medaliist with Tanunda, Patrick - the ingenious Schwerdt arrived at South Gawler with a fine pedigree. Popular opinion considered him to be the most gifted footballer of the three brothers.

Persistent leg injuries had hampered his aspirations to play league footy with the Bulldogs, however he immediately dominated local footy and starred in the last GDFL A Grade premiership under Captain-Coach Churchy Schultz.

Eddie would become our most celebrated player in modern times, gaining the record for the most Best and Fairest awards - totalling seven A Grade trophies (and two as Runner Up) during his illustrious 180 game career between 1986 and 1996.

Schwerdt dominated in the 1986, 1990, 1992 and 1993 flags and was awarded the BLGFA best and fairest in 1989, 1992 and 1995, representing the BLGFA on a number of occasions and South Australia Country in 1994 and 1995.

Eddie's celebrated service to the club as both a player and clubman was decorated with Club Player of the Year not once but twice, in 1989 and then 1993.

His uncanny high-marking and amazing sense for the ball instantly beckoned comparisons to his champion namesake from the pre War period, Eddie Mahoney. Constantly dogged by knee problems and often just playing on pure courage, his excellence never wavered, nor did his loyalty to his adopted club considering his most marketable talent. The great Mick Daly once declared during a quarter-time coach's address that it was "just an honour to play alongside him".

Unfortunately Eddie was forced to cut short his career fearing he would eventually not be able to walk, but along with his offsider the outstanding Jeff Brown, he epitomised the Lions of the 1990s.

In these modern times, Eddie Schwerdt proved to be much more than just another imported player. He quickly became a true club man and great South icon - the Schwerdt name today commands respect from any local footy goer, and is as much a part of South than the O'Reilly, Nottle or Riggs family names which have graced us for over a hundred years.