Roy Simmonds

Recruited from Koondrook in country Victoria, Roy Simmonds arrived at Glenferrie Oval in 1950 after being rejected by Melbourne, joining a Hawthorn side that was struggling at the bottom of the ladder. He quickly established himself as a fan favourite, known for his rugged determination and versatility. While capable of playing as a rover or in the centre, Simmonds played his best football as a dashing half-back flanker. He was renowned for his courage and strength in the contest, often breaking lines with inspiring runs out of defence that lifted his teammates and the crowd, even if his disposal was occasionally wayward.

Simmonds became a pillar of the club during the 1950s, winning the Best and Fairest in 1956 and serving as vice-captain during the team's gradual ascent up the ladder. Despite his immense contribution to Hawthorn's rise, his career ended in heartbreak. After playing 192 games and helping build the foundation for success, he was controversially omitted from the 1961 Grand Final side due to a thigh injury, forcing him to watch the club's first-ever premiership from the sidelines. A beloved figure who often entertained teammates with his banjo, he remained a loyal clubman, later coaching the reserves to a flag and earning selection in Hawthorn's Team of the Century.