Amongst the colourful roll call of names of former Uni Blues coaches is Michael Conlan.

After three years with Lee Adamson at the helm, in 2002 Blues turned to another former VFL star to serve as its senior coach

Mick Conlan donned the number 12 jumper in 210 bustling onfield appearances for Fitzroy prior to retiring in 1989. He is remembered for his muscular physique, explosive runs and clinching the 1986 Elimination Final for the Roys with a late goal against Essendon.

Conlan was taken to heart at Uni Oval for his football pedigree, remarkable fitness, fastidious personal grooming and unique turns of phrase (“expect the expected” and “sock rolid” being two of note).

His demeanour during the season was earnest but he relaxed considerably at the infamous post-season wake at the Lord Newry Hotel. The day’s entertainment was varied but the highlight was arguably a series of impromptu arm wrestling bouts. Top of the bill was a match up between Conlan and the club’s resident strongman, Andrew “Rowdy” Larkin. The pair relented to calls from the excited throng and contested the bout naked from the waist up. The match up did not disappoint, Larkin prevailing after an epic struggle.

Conlan was re-appointed as coach the following season but work commitments took him overseas during the pre-season, prompting him to stand down and hand over the clipboard to then deputy Steve Carroll.