Paul Licuria

Paul Licuria began his Football career with the Sydney Swans at 17 years of age. During this time Licuria suffered two major knee injuries forcing him out of football for the majority of this time. He was traded to the club he supported as a child, Collingwood for the Pies' first round selection, (no.3 overall) in 1998. Licuria immediately made an impact at the club with his ability to win the ball off half-back and the Midfield He won a Rising Star nomination for a high possession game against the West Coast Eagles. His form at the time showed signs of what was to come and he carried this form into the 2000 season, finishing 6th in the club's best and fairest, and playing every game with an average of 21 touches.

His 2001 and 2002 seasons were brilliant. His incredible work rate and consistency were rated very highly. He played every game in both seasons; averaging 23 and 22 touches a game in respective seasons. He capped both terrific seasons by winning the Copeland Trophy. It stunned everyone with his win in 2001, but in 2002 it was expected in the year the club made it to the Grand Final. Licuria's final series was fantastic., He achieved a career-high 40 disposals in the Qualifying Final against Port Adelaide and in the 2002 Grand final loss to Brisbane him and Mick Malthouse showed their disappointment in tears, with Licuria visibly crying.
His 2003 season was productive also, managing 24 games, missing round 1 through suspension, and breaking consecutive games run of 74. He played all games once again in 2004 and 2005, being noted as one of the most durable midfielders, despite his knee problems early in his career. He finished runner-up in the 2004 best and fairest, once again showing his importance to the side. Licuria continued on playing for another three seasons earning great respect from his pears.

After playing few games during the 2007 season, Licuria retired from the AFL at the end of the season. During his career Licuria became a valuable member of Collingwood’s Leadership team and spent his time away from the club working in different charity organizations. Predominantly with the Salvation Army, working with the homeless and developed a life living program.

After retiring Licuria has expressed interest in the media with doing work for Fox Footy, SEN and became a contestant on the Channel Seven series Dancing with the Stars for the 2008 series of the show. Overall Licuria finished third in the competition.