Malcolm Blight is a distinguished figure in Australian rules football, renowned for his exceptional playing and coaching career. He began his journey with the Woodville Football Club in the SANFL, where he made a significant impact by winning the Magarey Medal in 1972. Blight’s talent caught the attention of the North Melbourne Football Club, where he played from 1974 to 1982. During his time with the Kangaroos, he became the only player to kick 100 goals in a season in both the VFL and SANFL, and he won the prestigious Brownlow Medal in 1978, solidifying his status as one of the league’s greats.

Transitioning into coaching, Blight took the helm at North Melbourne, although his tenure was marked by challenges. He later found success with Geelong, leading them to multiple Grand Finals and establishing a record for aggregate points in a season. His innovative coaching style and ability to motivate players were evident as he guided Geelong to a remarkable scoring record, showcasing his tactical acumen and leadership.

Blight’s coaching prowess reached new heights with the Adelaide Football Club, where he led the team to back-to-back premierships in 1997 and 1998. His strategic decisions and ability to build a winning culture earned him a revered place in the club’s history, with the annual best and fairest award named in his honor.

After a brief stint with St Kilda, Blight transitioned to a media role, where he continued to influence the sport through commentary and analysis. His legacy in Australian rules football is marked by his remarkable achievements as both a player and a coach, making him a celebrated figure in the sport’s history.