Australian Football

Welsh-born John McCarthy is one of an illustrious band of elite footballers produced by North Hobart over the years.¹ Powerfully built, McCarthy was a strong marking player equally capable of providing an imposing focal point at centre half forward, or nullifying a key opposition attacking player at centre half back. After overcoming an injury interrupted start to his V/AFL career he went on to provide sterling service to both North Melbourne (92 games, 101 goals in 1986 and from 1988 to 1992) and Fitzroy (71 games and 77 goals between 1992 and 1996) before playing out his twilight years with Woodville-West Torrens in the SANFL.

An automatic choice in Tasmania's state of origin sides between 1989 and 1993, McCarthy, with three goals, was a key contributor to the 20.14 (134) to 14.17 (101) defeat of the 'Big V' at North Hobart Oval in 1990 (reviewed here).

Sadly, John McCarthy never played in a senior premiership side; the nearest he came was in the 2000 season when he was a member of the Eagles' losing Grand Final team against Central District.

Author - John Devaney