AFL legend Ron Barassi dead, aged 87

AFL legend Ron Barassi has died at the age of 87, his family confirmed in a statement on Saturday.

“After a full and extraordinary life, Ronald Dale Barassi, age 87, left us today due to complications following a fall,” the statement said.

“He died peacefully, surrounded by loving family. We ask for privacy at this time.’

Barassi was a huge figure in Aussie Rules football and was the first player to be inducted into the Hall of Fame as a legend.

Barassi’s football journey began in 1953 when he joined the Melbourne Football Club as a player. His exceptional skills, determination and leadership qualities contributed significantly to Melbourne’s success in the 1950s and 1960s, winning six premierships, twice as captain.

Moving into coaching, Barassi’s innovative methods and strategic insights have reshaped the game. He achieved premiership victories as a player and as a coach at Carlton Football Club in 1968 and 1970, demonstrating his ability as both.

It was at North Melbourne that Barassi’s coaching genius reached its peak, leading the team to premierships in 1975 and 1977. His ability to transform underperforming teams into champions cemented his reputation as a coaching genius.

In addition to his sporting achievements, Barassi was known for his philanthropic work and community involvement, which reflected his character and left a positive impact on society.

His father Ron Barassi Senior – who played for Melbourne Football Club – was the inspiration for his illustrious career.

After Barassi Senior tragically died in Tobruk while serving in World War II, his son followed in his football footsteps to Melbourne.

He was big and fearless and was managed by Norm Smith, his father’s coach. He pioneered the role of ruck rover and dominated the sport for decades.

His move to Carlton in 1964 was a landmark moment for the sport, receiving a hefty salary in what has been called ‘the most audacious signing in the history of the competition’.

His retirement from playing to become a full-time coach transformed the game, with his order for players to ‘play on from the marks and handball at all costs’ said to be the ‘birth of modern football’.

The father-of-three was married twice, first to Nancy Kellett in 1957, with whom he had their children Susan, Ron and Richard, and then to Cheryl Copeland in 1981.

More to follow