Bennett, a left-footed forward from East Brighton, first broke into the St Kilda team in the 1980 VFL season.
[1][2] He made two appearances that year, in rounds six and ten, then injured his ankle and missed the rest of the season.
[2][3][4] In 1981 he played 12 league games, with his best performance coming against South Melbourne at Waverley Park, where he had 23 disposals and kicked six goals.
In 2015 was inducted into the Southern Football Netball League Hall of Fame and was described as classy, strong, skillful and a great leader.
John is also a regular attendee at StKilda Past players & Officials reunions and events.