Dave O'Donoghue

Recruited from the Rose of Northcote club, Dave O'Donoghue arrived at Victoria Park as a promising centreman but carved out his VFL reputation as a tough, reliable defender. After catching the eye of Collingwood officials during a promotional tour of Tasmania, he became a fixture in the Magpies' backline, known for his strength, quickness, and an aggressive attack on the ball that occasionally drew the ire of the press. His best football came in 1909 when he played every game and was hailed as a "tower of strength" in defence, but his career momentum was cruelly halted the following season when a severe bout of mumps cost him his fitness and his place in the side during the club's 1910 premiership campaign. O'Donoghue was delisted midway through 1911, an exit he handled with remarkable dignity by penning a gracious letter of thanks to the committee that is still remembered as a testament to his character. He continued his football journey in the Metropolitan Association with Leopold, where he played alongside his brother, Alan.