Australian Football

A versatile high flier who could fill an on-ball role or occupy any key position to telling effect, David 'Swan' McKay was a key player for Carlton for well over a decade. Recruited from Newlyn, he made his VFL debut in 1969, and the following year was at centre half back, and one of the best players afield, as the Blues came from 44 points down at half time to defeat Collingwood in the Grand Final.

Two years later he was a ruck-rover changing in a back pocket on Grand Final day as Carlton overcame Richmond. One of the best and most spectacular marks of his day, McKay played in two further premiership sides for the Blues, in 1979 and 1981, before retiring after the 1981 Grand Final with 263 VFL games and 277 goals to his credit. He continued to perform well until the end, displaying considerable courage by playing on through the pain barrier afforded by a persistent, niggling ankle injury.

Author - John Devaney