Garry McIntosh, “Macca” to everyone, is Norwood’s longest-serving player, and is likely always to remain so.

He was also likely to remain Norwood’s equal longestserving captain, until recent Hall of Fame research found that Topsy Waldron had one more year’s leadership in him. But what no one will dispute is Macca’s status in the highest echelon of Norwood champions.

Like Wat Scott, there is a case for him as Norwood’s best ever player. Teammates would marvel at how Macca could take control of a game, and report later that opponents watched in awe. While in every one of his 371 games Macca’s attack on the ball was always that much harder than everyone else’s, he also was highly skilled, with a strong creative streak to complement the vigour.

For Norwood and SA he led from further out in front than most captains, and had no fear of even the biggest names in the game - of which he, in his own unique way, was one. He resisted the AFL’s call, and performed at the top level only with his beloved Redlegs. Although they were polar opposites, Macca was like John Marriott: he epitomised the Norwood of his time. He was the only one of his kind and there will never be another one like him.

Games: 371 Goals: 180
Premierships: 1982, 1984 Captain: 1990-98
Coach: 2002-04 Club champion: 1987-91
Further honours: Magarey Medal 1994-95, Norwood Player Life Member, Norwood Team of the Century, Fos Williams Medal for best player in State games 1984, 1992, 1995, SA captain 1992, 1995, 1997, SA games 12.

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