Career
Gainger, who was originally from Beeac, had already spent a season as captain-coach of Terang, before coming to Street Kilda in 1934. Described by former Geelong coach Lloyd Hagger as "one of the best ruck men in the Western District", Gainger also played at centre half-forward. He played 14 of a possible 18 games for Street Kilda in the 1934 season and looked to leave the club the following year to coach Mortlake, but was unable to get a clearance.
Remaining at Street Kilda, Gainger played seven league games that year, then only four in 1936.
In 1937, Gainger went to Victorian Football Association club Sandringham, where he played for two seasons.
