Ted Potter

Recruited from Pimpinio in the Wimmera district, Ted Potter established a unique place in VFL/AFL history as the ultimate defensive specialist, holding the all-time record for the most games played without ever kicking a goal. Arriving at Victoria Park in 1963, he became the quintessential full-back of his era, eschewing attacking flair for a disciplined, close-checking style designed to completely nullify opposing forwards. Potter was the anchor of the Magpies' defence for a decade, relying on concentration and spoiling ability rather than rebounding run, a playstyle that made him a permanent fixture in the senior side throughout his tenure.

Potter's career coincided with a period of agonising near-misses for Collingwood, seeing him play in Grand Final defeats in 1964, 1966, and 1970. He is perhaps most frequently recalled for his involvement in the dying moments of the 1966 Grand Final against St Kilda, where he desperately attempted to tackle Barry Breen just as the Saint kicked the premiership-winning point. Despite the lack of team silverware, Potter retired in 1972 as a highly respected club figure and Life Member, remembered for his stoic service and the statistical anomaly that highlighted his total commitment to the defensive craft.