It is with deep sadness that a short time ago I was alerted to the passing of Australian Football Hall of Fame Legend Ronald Dale Barassi Jnr. AM. Ron died at the age of 87 years after a short illness.
Ron was a towering figure in Aussie Rules football and was the first player inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame as a Legend after 253 senior VFL games, including 204 for Melbourne and 49 for Carlton. Ron claimed 10 VFL premierships at Melbourne, Carlton and North Melbourne as a player and coach.
Ron was the club patron of the AFL Premiership Players Club since its formation in 2000. His contribution to Australian Rules football and to the Victorian community cannot be understated. Committee and club members will have fond memories of Ron’s friendliness, charisma and charm at the many functions the club has run over the years. He was a very generous supporter of the club.
I have been privileged to have known Ron personally for a number of years both in my role as the CEO of the AFL Premiership Players Club and also in the course my professional activities as a certified valuer in fine art, antiques and collectables (sporting memorabilia). From a personal perspective, although I have never barracked for any of the football clubs Ron has been involved with as a player and coach, I have always viewed him as the most iconic identity in the history of Australian Rules football. I will truly miss this great man’s friendship, support, generosity and amazing humility. Although Ron has now walked up the race for the final time, he will forever be fondly remembered by all that had the privilege of knowing him.
I would like to pass on my sincere condolences to Ron’s wife, Cherryl, and to his family and friends at this very sad time. Farewell great man.
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