Sam Kekovich is a larger-than-life personality in the world of Australian Football League (AFL). A former star player with North Melbourne and Collingwood, Sam played a pivotal role in North Melbourne's first Premiership victory in 1975. Known for his dynamic presence on the field, Sam's career spanned over a decade, during which he participated in over 150 games, won a Club Best and Fairest award, and represented Victoria multiple times.
Sam's playing days were marked by his fiery interactions with iconic coach Ron Barassi, adding to his reputation as a controversial and engaging figure in the sport. Following his retirement from professional football, Sam successfully reinvented himself as an entrepreneur and media personality.
He has become a regular panellist on Channel 9's Sunday Footy Show, previously co-hosted Melbourne's 3AK radio breakfast team, and presented on Channel 2's "The Fat." Sam served as President of the Hammerheads, a football team created by Channel 7's show "The Club," and as the CEO of "K Rock" Radio in Geelong. Additionally, he hosted a TV program on the ESPN Cable network called "Pardon the Interruption."
One of Sam's most notable roles is his ambassadorship for the Meat & Livestock Association. His irreverent and humorous TV advertisements promoting lamb on Australia Day have been credited with a significant increase in lamb sales across Australia.
Sam's presentations are renowned for their humour and anecdotal nature, drawing from his extensive experiences and the colourful characters he has encountered throughout his life in football and beyond. His speeches, often punctuated with his unique commentary on the world, have made him a sought-after speaker for various organisations, including Telstra, Ford, CGU Insurance, Samsung, Foxtel, and Qantas.