David Zaharakis (born 21 February 1990) is a professional Australian rules footballer of Greek heritage, Zaharakis last played for the Essendon Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL).
AFL career
Zaharakis was drafted by Essendon with pick 23 in the 2008 National Draft, whom he supported growing up. He was awarded the number 11 guernsey, which was previously worn by Damien Peverill. He made his debut against Fremantle in round 2, 2009, and earned the Rising Star nomination on debut. In round 5, 2009, against Collingwood at the tender age of 19, he kicked the match-winning goal during the final seconds of the Anzac Day match to help the Bombers win by five points.
During 2011, he was able to make the most of his opportunity in the midfield, with the ability to move forward and kick over 30 goals for the season, winning the W.S. Crichton Medal in the process.
In round 5, 2013, he won the Anzac Day Medal, where he recorded 34 disposals and kicked four goals. It was revealed by his manager during 2013 that he did not take any part in Essendon’s 2012 controversial sport science program that placed the club under scrutiny by the AFL and ASADA (Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority) due to him suffering from a fear of needles. As a result, Zaharakis was found not guilty of using banned substances by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and was therefore able to participate in the 2016 season.
source: wikipedia
