They become the stuff of schoolyard legend. Theirs are the numbers adorning the backs of the fawning faithful. The true rockstars of our great game.
The high flyers.
It's part of the fabric of the code, is the hanger. There's nothing quite like the roar of a crowd when one of the men in the arena sits on the shoulders of another, and with velcro-like hands, plucks the Sherrin from the skies.
Take a look at some of those who have forged a reputation for themselves as artists among the clouds.
5. Alex Jesaulenko
I'll oblige. I'll say the line, but you really don't need me to. You said it in your head upon reading his name.
"Jesaulenko, you beauty!"
It's arguably the most famous piece of commentary the game has even produced, but it would be remiss of any footy fan to believe that the special mark that defined the 1970 Grand Final is the only one ever taken by Carlton great, the Austrian-born Alex Jesaulenko.
He's a legend of the game, and his marking prowess is just one reason why. Brave to the point of reckless, tough as nails and sublimely skilled, the original "Jezza" had schoolkids re-enacting his hangers as best they could for years, in one of footy's true golden ages.
I'm reliably informed that a great mark was simply referred to as a "Jezza" at that time. That's cultural significance.
