Kevin Darrigan

Recruited from Preston Wanderers, Kevin Darrigan was a strongly built key defender who cut his teeth at Victoria Park in the early 1950s. Despite his physical presence, he struggled to lock down a permanent spot in Collingwood's starting 18, with his best chance at a finals campaign in 1952 derailed by a severe arm ligament injury late in the season. Seeking regular senior opportunities, Darrigan crossed to Fitzroy in 1953, where he found the consistency that had eluded him at the Magpies. He spent four seasons with the Lions, typically manning full-back or centre half-back, where he became a reliable stopper who could also drift up the ground when required. He remained a cherished figure at the club long after his retirement, recognised as one of Fitzroy's oldest surviving past players until his passing in late 2024.