No.7
Position: Back pocket
Career: 1978-93
Games: 269. Goals: 70.
Captain: 1992-93. Premierships: 1983, 86, 88, 89, 91. Night premierships: 1985, 86, 88, 91, 92. Finals appearances: 27.
Awards: Six-time interstate representative; 1986 Club Champion; 1986, 88 Norm Smith Medallist.

Ayres was a fearless defender who played in five premierships with the Hawks. Coach Allan Jeans once described him as a good driver in heavy traffic, a tribute to his ability to manage pressure situations. Ayres won the 1986 Norm Smith Medal and then created history with his best afield performance in the 1988 grand final against Melbourne, and becoming the first player to win the medal twice. After his retirement, Ayres joined Geelong and was appointed senior coach in 1995. He led the Cats into the Grand Final with his first attempt.