The name Cyril will forever be etched into Hawthorn folklore as one of the most famous names in the club’s history.

It has become a household name over the last decade, with imagery of high marks and freakish goals instantly coming to mind upon hearing it. 

But, in addition to the four premierships, the Norm Smith Medal and the triple All Australian honours, the name has a further significance at the Hawthorn Football Club.

In 1957, Cyril Collard became the first indigenous player to pull on a Hawthorn jumper.

Watch: Cyril surprises the Lady Eaglehawks

Having moved over from Western Australia in 1956, Collard played 13 games for the Hawks in the two seasons of 1957 and 1958.

Despite a relatively short career at the Hawks, Collard began a proud tradition of indigenous players thriving in the brown and gold that has seen 18 other indigenous players play for the Hawks.

Among these players, Cyril Rioli, Shaun Burgoyne, Lance Franklin and Chance Bateman, have helped bring much joy to Hawthorn supporters.

This week marks the AFL’s annual Indigenous Round, which recognises and celebrates the impact that indigenous players and their culture have had on the game.