James Michalanney

(1974 - 1986)

Piano man

Jim Michalanney’s surname wouldn’t fit across the back of his tracksuit, but his nickname “Piano” - for his perfect white teeth - would. So Piano it was for more than 200 games, mainly in attack where, despite his slight build, his strong high marking and straight kicking were from the classical mould. The club always wanted to leave Jim at the top of the goalsquare, and there’s no doubt that had it been possible, he would have become one of Norwood’s leading goalscorers.

His ability to get first hand to the ball, however, was often required in ruck. He also held down centre half forward when necessary. Although he appeared briefly in 1974, Jim actually came of age when, with fellow teenager Jim Thiel, he was called up for the 1975 finals series that culminated with Norwood’s first premiership for 25 years.

He kicked a crucial goal from the graveyard southwestern pocket and proved that he could handle the going at its toughest. The club knew Piano’s value from then on, so it was fitting for one of the most popular blokes to play for Norwood that he should figure in three more flags and equal the 20th-century premiership records of the more illustrious Wat Scott, Ern Wadham, Jack Oatey and Phil Gallagher.

Games: 211
Goals: 342
Premierships: 1975, 1978, 1982, 1984
Leading goalkicker: 1976
Further honours: Norwood Player Life Member, NFL Champions of Australia Night Competition 1977, SA games 1

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