Cahill, the uncle of coaching great John, played as both a rover and wingman during his career.
He was the team's top goal-kicker in the Preliminary Final win over Fitzroy, with three goals and also participated in their premiership a week later.
He continued playing for four years after returning to South Adelaide and then coached the club in 1947 and 1948, as well as another stint later in 1957.
In between, from 1953 to 1956, Cahill was in charge of West Adelaide and coached them to a couple of Grand Final losses.
A South Australian representative at the 1937 Perth Carnival, Cahill played a total of 11 interstate matches over the years.