Bert Hyde

Recruited from Monbulk in the Dandenong Ranges, Bert Hyde was a rare shining light for Hawthorn during the club's difficult first decade in the VFL. He established himself as the team's focal point in attack, using his blistering speed on the lead and strong hands to top the club's goalkicking for five consecutive seasons between 1926 and 1930. Hyde was particularly renowned for his soaring torpedo punts, a weapon that allowed him to finish third on the VFL goalkicking table in 1928—a remarkable feat given Hawthorn failed to win a single game that year.

Hyde's career is perhaps best defined by his incredible versatility. After dominating as a forward, he was moved to full-back in 1931 to shore up a struggling defence and excelled immediately in the new role. He holds the unique distinction of being the only player in history to represent Victoria at both full-forward and full-back, earning state selection at opposite ends of the ground five years apart. After his playing days, Hyde remained a devout servant of the club for over 50 years as a committee member and talent spotter, eventually being inducted into the Hawthorn Hall of Fame.