There are some footballers who, for whatever reason, form a special connection with their club's fans.
 
They might not always be the best players in the team, but there is something about them that makes them a favourite of those who cheer from the stands each week.
 
It might be their hair, or their physique, or their temperament, or something about the way they play – the reasons are many and varied. And you can't force it: it has to happen naturally.
 
These are a football club's cult heroes. And Collingwood has had plenty of them over the years, especially in the decades since TV and media coverage has boomed.
 
Each week during the 2016 season, collingwoodfc.com.au and the club's history website Collingwood Forever will highlight the career of a different Magpie cult hero. Some have been great players, some have been battlers, some have flattered to deceive. But all have enjoyed a special place in the affections of the black-and-white army.
 
First cab off the rank is the remarkable Rene Kink – better known as the Incredible Hulk or Tank O’Donohue. Then come back every Wednesday to learn more about the careers of some of our most loved and most colourful players.

Collingwood Cult Figures: Learn more about the colourful career of Rene Kink