Ross Thornton is no stranger to the Club, having played 146 senior games with Fitzroy across 10 years (1980-89), before holding valuable positions as both an Assistant Coach and Team Manager at the Lions prior to the merger.   

Along with his glowing football resume, Ross has proven just as successful in business having worked with giant family restaurant chain McDonald’s since 1998. He currently owns and operates two franchises –  in Keysborough and Parkmore.

He became the second Life Member to sit on the current Board along with three-time premiership coach Matthews, after being elected by the members in December 2014.  

With a strong Fitzroy association, Ross is determined to help drive the Club's engagement strategies in Melbourne.