John Platten

Arriving at Glenferrie Oval with a formidable reputation from the SANFL, John Platten had already captured a Magarey Medal with Central District before crossing into the VFL in 1986. Instantly recognisable by his unruly mop of curls and relentless energy, the man affectionately known as "The Rat" redefined the expectations for small midfielders through his fearlessness in heavy traffic and ability to run opponents into the ground. As a rover, he became the perfect foil for full-forward Jason Dunstall, mastering the art of the crumb while contributing heavily to the scoreboard himself during Hawthorn's golden era.

Platten's impact was immediate and sustained, characterised by his rare combination of in-and-under grunt and outside polish. He became a linchpin of the Hawks' dynasty, securing four premierships and tying with Tony Lockett for the 1987 Brownlow Medal in just his second season at the elite level. A five-time All-Australian and seventeen-time state representative, he remained a key contributor well into the 1990s despite the physical toll of his courageous playstyle. He retired in 1998 as one of the most decorated players in VFL/AFL history and an undisputed legend of the Hawthorn Football Club.