Ron Barassi dead – AFL legend dies aged 87 surrounded by family after suffering complications from a fall
AFL legend Ron Barassi has died aged 87 after suffering complications from a fall.
News of the sporting legend’s death was shared by his family who revealed he passed peacefully surrounded by his loved ones.
Ron Barassi has died aged 87 after suffering complications from a fallGetty
A family statement said: “After a full and extraordinary life, Ronald Dale Barassi, aged 87, left us today due to complications from a fall.
“He died peacefully, surrounded by loving family. We ask for privacy at this time.”
Ron was a prominent figure in Aussie Rules football and was the first-ever player to be inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
He played 253 senior VFL games during his career, 204 at Melbourne and later 49 for Carlton.
While playing and coaching, Barassi earned 10 premierships at Melbourne, Carlton and North Melbourne.
He followed in his father’s footsteps as a Melbourne player after his tragic death in WWII, when Ron was just five years old.
His career began in 1953 when he joined the Melbourne Devils and he rose to the top after displaying incredible skill and determination.
He won six premierships during the 50’s and 60’s – two while playing as captain.
A shock move to Carlton as coach and player rocked Melbourne kicking off a flag drought that would last 57 years.
While best known for his time with the Demons, Barassi also left a lasting impact on the Kangaroos and Sydney Swans.
Off the pitch, Barassi was also known for his philanthropic work and help in the community.
On New Year’s Day in 2009, Barassi went to the aid of a woman being attacked in the street by a group of men.
They turned on the AFL legend, leaving him with serious head injuries.
The AFL community rushed to pay tribute to one of its true greats on Saturday.
Fans on X, formerly known as Twitter, said: “Awww RIP Barras you were a legend.
Another added: “Absolute legend and a true Australian.”
GettyRon Barassi pictured in 1953 playing with the Melbourne Demons during AFL training[/caption]
