1955 VFL Grand Final — Norm Smith’s Era Begins

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The 1955 VFL Grand Final saw Melbourne defeat Collingwood 8.16 (64) to 5.6 (36) at the MCG — a 28-point margin that launched the Demons’ five-flag dynasty under Norm Smith. Played on 24 September 1955 in front of 85,022 fans, Melbourne’s premiership was Norm Smith’s first as senior coach.

The Build-Up: Demons’ Era Beginning

Melbourne, under Norm Smith (in his first year as senior coach), had built a finals-grade squad. Multiple senior Demons in form.

Table of Contents

Collingwood had reached the Grand Final under Phonse Kyne. The Magpies’ continuing era was strong but Melbourne’s depth was decisive.

The Match: Demons’ Coronation

Melbourne led from first bounce. Multiple Demons contributed; Collingwood’s 5 goals indicated the defensive smothering.

Final score: Melbourne 8.16 (64) defeated Collingwood 5.6 (36) — a 28-point margin.

The Premiership Coach: Norm Smith (First)

Norm Smith collected his first Jock McHale Medal in 1955. He’d later add 1956, 1957, 1959, 1960, 1964 — six total.

Famous Moments

Multiple Demons’ contributions.
Norm Smith’s tactical innovations.
The 28-point Demons margin.
Norm Smith’s first Cup lift — launching the Demons’ dynasty.
The crowd of 85,022.
Demons’ supporter celebrations.
Phonse Kyne’s gracious post-match.
The launch of the Norm Smith era.
The launch of one of the great VFL dynasties.
Norm Smith Medal not yet instituted — would be named after this very coach in 1979.