McDonald had remarkable natural ability and balance. He took risks and when on-song his blistering pace made him almost unstoppable. He could turn defence into attack in a moment and his superb ball handling and skill meant he hurt opposition sides when he got the football. Before coming to Essendon Seconds in 1946 he was a paratrooper in the army from 1942 to 1946, having enlisted at the age of 16. He had played with Belmont as a boy but his career took off when he arrived at Windy Hill.
McDonald starred on the half back flank in the 1949 and 1950 premiership wins and was Essendon’s best player in the 1948 finals series. He was the Bombers' second top Brownlow Medal vote scorer in 1948, 1950 and 1951 (equal). He also won the club best first year player award in 1947 and the most improved player award in 1948.
Essendon chief executive Peter Jackson said the club was saddened by the news of one of the club’s former champions passing away. ""Norm McDonald contributed in a number of ways both on and off the field. He was a passionate Essendon man and followed the team with interest even after his playing days. Being honoured as a Champion of Essendon earlier this year is a testament to the quality player he was,” Jackson said.
McDonald was a member of the Gunditjmara people. The funeral arrangements for Norm Donald are yet to be advised.
Norm McDonald
DOB: 10.12.1925
Number: 4
Games: 128
Goals: 3
Premierships: 1949 and 1950
Finals games: 15
Recruited from: Geelong RAAF team Belmont
First EFC game: v Geelong, Rd 4, 1947
Last EFC game: v Footscray, first semi-final, 1953
EFC Honours: Best first year player 1947, Most improved player 1948, Best and Fairest 1951, Grand final appearances 1947 - 51.
Did you know: Won the Australian Amateur 500m trial, won Bendigo Gift (record time 11.7 seconds), and was runner-up in 1952 Stawell Gift.
