Mark was an incredibly tough footballer, built on strength, courage and commitment. Williams played much of his career in the centre, he gathered prolific amounts of the ball, was a regular goalkicker and a born leader. His dedication to his football was unrivaled and it has since shown that he was some 20 years ahead of his time in his commitment to training and competing.

After five years in the SANFL with West Adelaide and Port Adelaide, Mark moved to Collingwood at 21 years of age and then he went on to become South Australia's most successful VFL player of his time. He was the first South Australian to play 200 VFL/AFL games and captained Collingwood for four seasons, twice winning its Best and Fairest trophy. After three years with the Brisbane Bears, where he was the inaugural vice-captain, Mark returned to Alberton to finish his career. Another two premierships at Alberton made it four out of five flags for Mark at Port. It was a fitting end to a great career.

Now he is in the midst of the newest and perhaps biggest challenge of his career - Port Adelaide's senior coach. Mark took on the role for the 1999 season having worked alongside John Cahill in the Club's first two years in the AFL and prior to that he was at Essendon's reserves coach for two years and Glenelg's senior coach two years before that. He is a highly motivated coach, who has a great deal of passion and intensity that lifts everyone around him. He is always upfront and honest, has incredible enthusiasm and a work ethic that is second to none. Along with his dedication to the club and his tactical knowledge, it is only a matter of time before his just rewards are on the board.