Spencer, a Queenslander, came from Jindalee and played his football as a ruckman and key forward. He made his first appearances in the VFL towards the end of the 1985 season and in 1986 kicked 17 goals from 12 games. In 1987 he injured his hamstring which restricted his appearances and he played just eight more games over the next two seasons.[1]
He transferred to Melbourne in 1990 but could only manage three games before crossing to Geelong during the 1991 AFL season.[2]
At Geelong, he was able to cement his spot in the team immediately and play their last 10 games of the season, including three finals.[3]