1976 VFL Grand Final — Hawthorn Beat North Melbourne
The 1976 VFL Grand Final saw Hawthorn defeat North Melbourne 13.22 (100) to 10.10 (70) at the MCG — a 30-point margin that delivered the Hawks their second flag of the 1970s. Played on 25 September 1976 in front of 110,143 fans, Hawthorn’s premiership confirmed John Kennedy’s coaching tenure as one of the most-decorated of the era. Don Scott led the way.
The Build-Up: Hawks vs Roos
Hawthorn had won 1971 (after a 13-year drought from 1957). The 1976 Grand Final was a chance to confirm the Hawks’ arrival as a premiership force. Don Scott led the captaincy; multiple senior Hawks were in form.
North Melbourne, under Ron Barassi (a name about to become legend at North), had won 1975 — their first-ever VFL flag. The 1976 Grand Final was their second consecutive Grand Final appearance.
The Match: Hawks’ Coronation
Hawthorn led from first bounce. Don Scott’s contested marks, Peter Knights’s defensive run, and Russell Greene’s pressure were decisive.
Final score: Hawthorn 13.22 (100) defeated North Melbourne 10.10 (70) — a 30-point margin.
The Norm Smith Medal: N/A (Pre-1979)
Norm Smith Medal not yet instituted. Best on Ground was widely recognised as Don Scott of Hawthorn.
The Premiership Coach: John Kennedy
John Kennedy Sr was Hawthorn’s iconic 1970s coach. The 1971 and 1976 flags were the highlights of his tenure.
Famous Moments
- Don Scott’s contested marks.
- Peter Knights’s defensive run.
- Russell Greene’s pressure.
- Wayne Schimmelbusch’s 26 disposals for Roos.
- Ross Glendinning’s 3 goals.
- The 30-point Hawks margin.
- John Kennedy’s emotional Cup lift.
- The crowd of 110,143.
- Hawthorn’s supporter celebrations.
- Ron Barassi’s gracious post-match.
Trivia for the Pub
- Date: 25 September 1976, MCG.
- Final: Hawthorn 13.22 (100) defeated North Melbourne 10.10 (70).
- Margin: 30 points.
- Crowd: 110,143.
- Hawthorn’s 3rd VFL premiership (1961, 1971, 1976).
- Norm Smith Medal not yet instituted.
- John Kennedy Sr was Hawthorn’s iconic 1970s coach.
- The Hawks’ 1976 win bridged 1971 and 1978.
- North Melbourne had won 1975 — their first-ever VFL flag.
- The 1976 result extended the Hawks’ developing dynasty.
The Verdict
The 1976 VFL Grand Final extended Hawthorn’s 1970s era. Long live the 1976 Hawks.
