IT IS WITH much sadness that the Melbourne Football Club farewells one of its greatest figures and stories – Hugh McPherson.  A playing veteran of both Footscray and Melbourne, along with his wartime service in the Army, McPherson was a former butcher, a contemporary of Norm Smith, and a strong character who stood up for his beliefs.

This latter characteristic led to his most lasting impact on the game, one that changed the face of the competition. Having played for Melbourne between 1941 and 1944, McPherson had returned to Melbourne as a trainer in 1954, and had acted as an ‘unofficial runner’ for Norm Smith, taking messages from the coach to players on the ground.

It was an unenviable role, as opposition supporters and umpires alike would demand that the runner leave the ground.  But, as he was tending Melbourne player Fred Webster’s twisted ankle, McPherson refused to leave.  Ignoring the noise of the crowd and the pleas of the umpire, McPherson stood firm, until another Melbourne trainer came out to assist with removing Webster from the ground.

As a result of this episode, a VFL meeting was held the following week to resolve the issue of the runner’s presence once and for all.  It was decided that each coach could have an ‘official runner’, who had to wear an armband to show his status.  Melbourne’s Hugh McPherson was the first.

In following seasons, McPherson would also play a part in suggesting that Ron Barassi Jnr play in what became the ruck rover position.  He was entrenched in Melbourne’s folklore, and a friend to all, from Smith to Club president Albert Chadwick, the players and his own former teammates of those 37 games between 1941 and 1944.  Made a Life Member in 1964 for his ‘great service over the past years’, McPherson was treasured by all.

As Club great John Lord has said, McPherson ‘loved the Club, loved the players....’  The Club loved McPherson, too, and his passing leaves us all the poorer for his departure.  We share the sorrow of his wife, Gwen, daughters De'Arne and Sandra, and his wider circle of family and friends. 

Details regarding Hugh McPherson’s funeral will be provided when and as they are made available.