White spent his early years playing rugby league and did not play competitive Australian rules football until his teenage years. By the age of 17, White was playing senior football for Subiaco in the West Australian Football League.
Football career
West Coast (1991–2000)
Along with Glen Jakovich, White was a priority draft choice from Western Australia in 1990. He played just two games for West Coast in 1991 then advanced to be part of the Eagles' 1992 premiership side. A severe groin injury wrecked White's 1993 season and most of 1994. While not a big marking player, White was very mobile and had strong hands and was considered to be a key performer by other clubs.
In 1996, White switched to the centre half-forward position after playing his entire career to date as a defender. The move paid dividends, with White kicking 37 goals to lead the Eagles' season tally and earn himself a place in the 1996 All-Australian team. Early in 1997, White injured his knee, which sidelined him for the year. White was elevated to vice-captaincy in 2000, but was traded at the end of the year.
Geelong (2001–2003)
White moved to Geelong for the 2001 season and was an effective forward, averaging a goal a game. However, he only managed seven games in the next two seasons, which signalled his retirement. During his time at Kardinia Park, White won a Victorian Football League premiership for the Geelong reserves in 2002.
