As a youngster, Lumsden had sold Heralds at John Wren's tote. A tough, strong utility player who only had limited chances in his first stint at Collingwood, Lumsden made his mark at Essendon, once kicking seven goals in a game, and in his second try at Collingwood played in three successive Grand Final teams, including the 1917 and 1919 premierships. The cousin of Dick Lee, he was later a Magpie official for many years.