Australian Football

Recruited by Collingwood from Ivanhoe Amateurs Jack Hamilton (pictured on the previous page) was a half back initially but developed into a formidable full back who was ruthless, relentless and excessively physical in his approach. He played 154 VFL games for the Magpies between 1948 and 1957 but sadly these did not include the triumphant grand final of 1953 which Hamilton missed through injury. He also represented Victoria just once, which is somewhat surprising given his acknowledged status as one of the finest VFL full backs of all time. According to Michael Roberts:

There was certainly more grit than flair in the Hamilton game, but it was effective nonetheless. He read the game well, could take a decent mark, was an effective spoiler and had fair pace, which was often on show during his attacking charges from defence. He was also a reliable kick who could cover plenty of distance. But his major strength was just that - his strength.[1]

That strength was maintained and developed by a routine of regular weight training, something which was quite unusual at the time.

His reckless ruggedness was legendary at Collingwood, with some of his team mates claiming he was almost as dangerous to them as were their opponents.

Jack Hamilton was later a prominent VFL administrator. including a three year stint (1984-6) as Chief Commissioner.

He was killed in a car crash in May 1990, the year which would see Collingwood claim its first flag since 1958.

Author - John Devaney