Kenneth Daryl Ibbett was recorded as both Ken and Daryl Ibbett during his playing career. For this Bio he is referred to as Ken but will also be referred to as Daryl or Darrell in any direct quote. He is a first cousin of Roy Ainsworth (Wests #439) who famously played under the name of Roy Dreves. He is also related to Wests historian and researcher, Geoff Ibbett.
The Ibbett family has a long association with Wests. Geoff Ibbett’s grandfather, Joseph, lived a few houses away from Wests stalwart, Ted Mead in Hampden St Ashfield. Joseph also provided accommodation for Wests players, Les Mead and Cliff Pearce in the early 1930’s.
Ken Ibbett lived most of his life at Meryla St Burwood where he was listed in the census as a labourer, the same as his father Edmund. Edmund Henry Ibbett was also listed as a long-term member of the Western Suburbs Football Club, obviously a strong influence on the young Ken.
Ken played six First Grade games in 1943 and 1945. However, he played a total of 82 games in all grades from 1942-47. A stocky front-rower, he was known for his high-class goal-kicking.
