Rod McLean

Recruited from Fawkner, Rod McLean established himself as a physical enforcer and the patriarch of a notable footballing family that later produced son Ricky and grandson Brock. Primarily a ruckman who could push forward or roam as a ruck-rover, he was renowned for his aggression and fearlessness, earning the moniker "Madcap" from his teammates. His combative approach was effective but occasionally costly, most notably resulting in a severe 16-match suspension in 1942 for abusing an umpire and unseemly conduct.

Despite the disciplinary setbacks and a significant interruption due to military service during World War II, McLean was a pivotal figure in two of Carlton's most famous premierships. He tasted success in the 1938 Grand Final against Collingwood and returned from the war to serve as vice-captain during the infamous 1945 "Bloodbath" premiership against South Melbourne, where his imposing physical presence was central to the bruising contest. After hanging up the boots in 1946, he cemented his status as a club great by serving the Blues off the field as a committeeman and Chairman of Selectors.