George Coates

George Coates's path to League football was delayed by service with the RAAF during World War II, meaning he did not make his senior debut until age 23. A local recruit who lived just a street away from the Brunswick Street Oval, he quickly made up for lost time, booting three goals in his first game and establishing himself as a dangerous, goal-kicking rover. Standing just 175cm, Coates was renowned for his evasion and pace, forming a formidable on-ball partnership with Brownlow Medallist Allan Ruthven. He remained a consistent threat throughout his eight seasons, notably kicking five goals in the 1947 Preliminary Final and representing Victoria in 1949. His playing days were eventually cut short in 1954 by a recurring ruptured quadricep, just a year after he finished runner-up in the club’s Best and Fairest count by a single vote.

While his on-field contribution was significant, Coates's off-field legacy at Fitzroy is arguably even greater. He served the club for over four decades in various administrative roles, including 21 years as Vice-President and a stint as Chairman of Selectors, eventually receiving the prestigious Jack Titus Award for his services to the game. Most famously, Coates used his artistic skills to design the iconic "Prowling Lion" logo in 1965, an emblem that remains the centrepiece of the Brisbane Lions guernsey today. Following the 1996 merger, he became a pivotal figure in establishing the Historical Society, ensuring the Royboys' history was preserved within the new entity.