Paul Rizonico

Recruited from Bundoora, Paul Rizonico was a talented junior sportsman who represented Australia in Under-19 cricket before prioritising his football career. His path to senior selection at Collingwood was hindered by injuries, including a broken nose and persistent groin issues, which delayed his debut until late 1986. While he demonstrated his potential by sharing the Joseph Wren Memorial Trophy as the reserves Best and Fairest in 1987 and producing a standout 24-disposal performance against Footscray, he ultimately struggled to secure a regular position in the senior side. Seeking greater opportunities, the South Australian-born utility transferred to Port Adelaide in the SANFL at the end of 1988, reuniting with former coach John Cahill. He subsequently built a decorated career in South Australia, playing in two premierships and remaining involved with the Power as a long-serving official.