James Manson

Recruited from North Hobart, James Manson carved out a unique place in football folklore as a Collingwood cult hero during the late 1980s and early 1990s. While his gait appeared ungainly and his mechanics were famously unorthodox—particularly a goal-kicking style that involved holding the ball with two hands until it virtually hit his boot—Manson was a deceptively effective tall. He possessed a powerful contested mark and the ability to pinch-hit in the ruck, traits that made him a vital component of the Magpies' structure. His career highlight came during the 1990 finals series, where his aerial presence and key goals were instrumental in delivering Collingwood's drought-breaking premiership.

Following the 1992 season, Manson was cleared by Collingwood and found a new home at Fitzroy, providing experience to a young list during the club's tumultuous final years. He adapted well to the change, finishing third in the Lions' best and fairest in his debut season with the club and offering a reliable target up forward. Manson eventually retired in 1995, leaving the game as one of the era's most recognisable characters, remembered as much for his eccentricity and larrikin nature as for his ability to perform on the biggest stage.