Harry Curtis

After managing just two senior appearances for Carlton in 1913, Harry Curtis crossed town to bitter rivals Collingwood, a move that would ultimately shape the history of the Magpies. While he struggled to break into a strong Blues lineup, the shift to Victoria Park saw him immediately flourish, becoming a staple of the side for the next decade. Standing 183cm, which was tall for the era, Curtis operated primarily as a follower who could push forward with damaging effect. His aerial strength and reliability in front of goal made him a dangerous dual-threat player, allowing him to average well over a goal a game despite spending significant time in the ruck.

Curtis became a pivotal on-field figure during a successful period for the club, playing a key role in the 1917 and 1919 premiership victories. His ability to act as a marking target in attack provided the Magpies with structural flexibility that many opposition defences struggled to contain. Although he retired as a player in 1923, his contribution to Collingwood was far from over. Curtis transitioned into administration and eventually became the club's longest-serving president, presiding over the famous "Machine" era of four consecutive premierships, cementing his legacy as a titan of the club both on and off the field.