Australian Football

A decisive, tear away defender whose approach to the game epitomised the Richmond 'eat 'em alive' ethic, Basil McCormack played 199 VFL games between 1925 and 1936, and would arguably have had few peers as a half back flanker either before or since. Winner of Richmond's best and fairest award on two occasions, McCormack was a prime reason for the Tigers missing only one Grand Final in the eight-year period between 1927 and 1934. Unfortunately, their record in Grand Finals was a poor one, but in both of their successful years (1932 and 1934) McCormack featured prominently among the best players.

A 13-time Big V representative, McCormack's lofty status in Tigerland was emphasised with his selection on a half back flank in Richmond's official 'Team of the 20th Century'. Following his 12-year stint in the VFL, Basil McCormack spent nine years coaching in Tasmania.

Author - John Devaney