- John Beveridge died after a battle with illness
- Widely regarded as an elite footy recruiter
- Previously awarded life membership of St Kilda
The AFL industry – and St Kilda in particular – is in mourning following the death of recruitment guru John Beveridge.
He died on Thursday after a long battle with his illness at the age of 85.
Widely regarded as one of the best recruiters in VFL/AFL history, Beveridge’s hand-picked successes include Saints legends Nick Riewoldt, Brendon Goddard, Justin Koschitzke, Nick Dal Santo and Leigh Montagna.
Although they failed to land a flag, the quintet were key figures in the club’s revival, including a grand final defeat – in a replay at the MCG – in 2010 against Collingwood.
St Kilda chief executive Carl Dilena paid tribute to the identity of the club, whose son is Luke Beveridge, the premiership-winning coach of the Western Bulldogs.
“John’s impact on our club has been felt for generations and there is no doubt he is one of the best recruiters Australian football has ever seen,” Dilena said.
“His ability to see the potential in a draftee, both as a footballer and as a person, was second to none.
“We send our love and condolences to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing John on the trip, and thank him for all he has done for our club and community.”
The AFL industry – and St Kilda in particular – is in mourning following the death of recruitment guru John Beveridge (pictured)
John Beveridge is widely regarded as one of the best recruiters in VFL/AFL history (pictured, training in St Kilda)
His son is Luke Beveridge, the premiership-winning coach of the Western Bulldogs (pictured left, in his playing days)
Beveridge was welcomed into the St Kilda fold in 1965 after previously working as a statistician for Footy Week magazine.
He quickly moved into recruitment, where he became a key figure at the club for decades.
Beveridge was previously honored with life membership of St Kilda, and the AFL also recognized his contribution to the game in 2021 with the Jack Titus Service Award.
The Western Bulldogs also paid tribute to Beveridge.
“The club extends its condolences to Luke and all the Beveridge family following the loss of his father John,” a statement said.
“He was a respected recruiter for St Kilda with a career in football spanning more than five decades.
‘Vale John Beveridge.’