FOUR-time premiership player David McKay has been made a Legend of the Carlton Football Club, with his Hall of Fame status elevated after being inducted in 1996.
McKay joins Craig Bradley, Bert Deacon, Bruce Doull, Ken Hands, Alex Jesaulenko, Wayne Johnston, Stephen Kernahan, John Nicholls, Sergio Silvagni, Stephen Silvagni, Geoff Southby, Harry Vallence and Robert Walls in the coveted group.
Affectionately known as ‘Swan’, and renowned as one of the most spectacular high marks of his era, McKay pulled on the Navy Blue for 12 seasons and was awarded Carlton Life Membership in 1976, along with Life Membership of the AFL Players’ Association in 2013.
Recruited from Newlyn in central Victoria, McKay made his debut in the No.43 in Round 3, 1969 and went on to claim four premiership medals as a member of Carlton’s 1970, ’72, ’79 and ’81 premiership teams.
McKay was widely considered best afield in the famous 1970 Grand Final and is the only man in the history of the Club to feature in three winning Grand Finals over Collingwood.
After hanging up his boots and calling an end to an illustrious career following the 1981 premiership, McKay served the Club in an off-field capacity – as runner for the Under 19s in 1982 and an assistant coach for the Under 19s in 1985 and ’86.
Carlton President Mark LoGiudice said McKay’s elevation to Legend status affirmed his everlasting legacy in the Old Dark Navy Blue.
“Our club is extremely proud to have David become an official Legend of the Carlton Football Club, recognising his significant contribution to the Blues during and after his time on the field,” LoGiudice said.
“Being inducted into the Carlton Football Club Hall of Fame is a privilege and an honour, and only a select few players are elevated to the esteemed Legend status.
“Having won four premierships and been a standout player during one of the Club’s most successful eras, David more than comfortably sits in the company of his 13 fellow Carlton Legends.
“David has granted every Carlton person who saw him in full flight with fond, everlasting memories -memories our club will forever be grateful for.
“Congratulations to David and his family on this esteemed and everlasting achievement.”
Established in 1987, the Carlton Football Club Hall of Fame recognises contributions made to the Club by individuals since 1864 and acknowledges each candidate’s outstanding service and overall contribution to the Club, as well as their individual record, ability, integrity, sportsmanship and character.
