by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago
McIntosh, 30, was originally drafted by North Melbourne in 2002 but was hampered by injuries in his first two seasons. He finally made his debut early in 2005.
He went on to play 107 games and kicked 59 goals for the Kangaroos. He was named All-Australian in 2007. During his time with North, the club drafted Todd Goldstein and McIntosh mentored the young ruckman. Kangaroo Coach Brad Scott praised McIntosh for his career and his contributions to the Kangaroos. “In his prime, Hamish was as good as any ruckman in the competition. It was a privilege to coach Hamish for a few seasons and he was an extremely popular member of the playing group and wider club.” Scott also said that Hamish and Todd made a great ruck combination which gave the team great flexibility. “Hamish played a very important role in Todd’s football education and really helped shape the player he is today. Hamish should be extremely proud of what he’s achieved in football.”
Source: Heath O'Loughlin, North Melbourne Media Release, Stacey Oates, Geelong Media Release
In early July, North Melbourne defender Nathan Grima announced his retirement, after succumbing to a chronic back problem which prevented him from playing any games in 2015. Grima, 29, underwent a second back surgery during the preseason and now requires another surgery to fuse a disc to alleviate the pain and other symptoms.
Perhaps Grima's greatest career highlight came in 2013. Suffering a minor foot injury during a match against Essendon, he was moved to the forward line and kicked his first and only career goal in his 73rd game. All his teammates ran in to congratulate him, including Lachie Hansen who ran about 100 yards from defense. The goal and his interviews on-field and in the rooms can be viewed at these YouTube links. They are well worth watching.
Source: Paul Riordan, North Melbourne Media Release
Article last changed on Thursday, August 13, 2015 - 12:26 AM EDT