Mark Zanotti

Recruited from Subiaco, Mark Zanotti etched his name in history as a member of the inaugural West Coast Eagles side in 1987. A flamboyant left-footer, Zanotti established himself as a rebounding defender who was arguably ahead of his time, frequently backing himself to tuck the ball under his arm and break lines from deep in defence. His adventurous playstyle, combined with his distinctive flowing hair, quickly cemented his status as a cult figure among supporters, even if his ambitious kicking could occasionally result in turnovers.

After two seasons in Perth, Zanotti crossed the continent to join the Brisbane Bears in 1989, where he played the bulk of his career and finished runner-up in the club champion award in his first season. He provided essential dash and resilience to a struggling Bears backline for four years before returning to Victoria to join Fitzroy in 1993. While he eventually settled into a more traditional defensive role during his three seasons with the Roys, he remains best remembered for his attacking flair and his willingness to take the game on from the back pocket.