Brian Cordy

Recruited from Traralgon in the Latrobe Valley, Brian Cordy arrived at the Western Oval to establish what would become a significant family dynasty at Footscray. Joining his older brother Neil in the senior side, Cordy quickly carved out a niche as a dashing and creative defender who could turn defence into attack. Renowned for his "hard-as-nails" approach and ability to break lines with his run and carry, he became a fixture on the half-back line during the club's resurgence under Mick Malthouse. His durability during this peak era was highlighted in 1985, where he played every single game during the Bulldogs' heartbreaking run to the Preliminary Final.

Cordy's career was ultimately curtailed by persistent knee injuries, which forced him into retirement in 1988 at just 27 years of age. He remains a cult figure for educated fans as the record holder for the most games played in the number 49 guernsey, a high number usually reserved for reserves players or long-shots. His legacy at the club extended well beyond his own playing days, with the Cordy connection continuing through the father-son rule; his eldest son Ayce played for the club, while his younger son Zaine famously emulated his father's defensive grit to become a premiership player for the Bulldogs in 2016.