Bill Twomey

A central figure in one of Collingwood's most celebrated footballing families, Bill Twomey Jr joined the Magpies in 1945, following in the footsteps of his father, Bill Sr. He eventually lined up alongside his brothers Mick and Pat, creating a unique sibling triumvirate that was instrumental to the club's success in the post-war era. Renowned for his pace, balance, and aerial ability, Twomey was a utility player in the truest sense, equally capable of dominating in the centre, on the wing, or drifting forward to impact the scoreboard.

While critics occasionally noted lapses in concentration, his best football was exceptional, characterised by high marking and elegant ball use. He was a pivotal member of the 1953 premiership side and solidified his standing at Victoria Park by winning the Copeland Trophy in 1956. Despite ongoing battles with injuries that curtailed his output in later seasons, Twomey retired in 1958 and was later named in the Collingwood Team of the Century, widely regarded as one of the most naturally gifted players to wear the black and white.