Kevin Bartlett niggled, he ran, he appealed for frees and he kicked 778 goals. The record books say he has 403 games, five flags, 27 finals, coaching and commentary to his name. Before the 2017 season, 'KB' will also have a statue.

Acknowledging the honour at the MCG's Avenue of Legends yesterday, Bartlett said his wife Denise cried at hearing the news. It was, he said, an indication of how much his family valued the honour bestowed by the MCC and how integral the MCG was to his life as a Melburnian.

Living legend: Kevin Bartlett strikes a pose outside the MCG. Credit:Justin McManus

"As a young kid I grew up in Lennox Street, Richmond in the shadows of the MCG and all my great football memories are about the MCG," the wily rover turned radio spruiker said.

"As I grew up as a young kid watching the Bulldogs win the '54 premiership as a Bulldogs supporter in those days and then having the honour of playing in five Richmond grand finals at the MCG.