Frank John Murphy

Emerging as a key figure during Collingwood's golden era, Frank Murphy was a rover of high quality who combined durability with goal-kicking prowess. Standing just 170cm, he was renowned for his elusive ground play and ability to read the game, often drifting forward to hit the scoreboard with impressive regularity. He served as the perfect complement to the rugged style of teammates like Syd Coventry, adding polish to the Magpies' engine room throughout the late 1920s.

Murphy's legacy is tied to the legendary "Machine" team, where he held the rare distinction of playing in all four of the club's consecutive premierships from 1927 to 1930. He was a vital cog in Jock McHale's system, providing consistent service over a decade-long career that saw him rarely miss a match during the club's peak. After ten seasons and 145 games, he retired in 1934 as one of the most decorated players of his generation.