Robert Dean

Robert Dean was a versatile tall recruited from Ivanhoe Amateurs who became a valuable utility for Collingwood during the 1970s. Standing 189cm, he possessed the height of a key position player but the mobility of a midfielder, often featuring on a wing where his rangy stride and overhead marking gave the Magpies a distinct aerial advantage. After sitting on the bench for his debut in 1969, Dean broke out in 1970, cementing a spot in the side that famously lost the Grand Final to Carlton. Despite Collingwood's heartbreaking run of finals defeats in that era, Dean developed a reputation as a big-game performer, winning the club's best finals player award in both 1972 and 1973.

Seeking the opportunity to play permanently as a key forward rather than a roaming wingman, Dean requested a clearance to South Melbourne ahead of the 1976 season. The move paid immediate dividends; he booted eight goals on debut against Geelong and followed up with six majors against his old side the very next week. He finished his first year at the Lake Oval as South Melbourne's leading goalkicker with 37 majors, vindicating his desire to play closer to goal. He remained a consistent contributor for the Swans for five seasons, utilising his strong marking hands and experience to anchor the forward line before retiring in 1980.