Former AFL commissioner Graeme John passed away on Monday after a prolonged battle with illness. The Australian Football League (AFL) paid tribute to John, acknowledging his significant contributions to the sport both on and off the field.
Before his illustrious career as a sports administrator, John made his mark as a player. He played 144 games in the top-level for East Perth and South Melbourne, earning All Australian selection at the 1966 Carnival. After retiring as a player, John went on to coach South Melbourne for three seasons and served another three years as club president.
Beyond his involvement in football, John became the managing director of Australia Post. In 2001, he was appointed as an AFL commissioner, a position he held for a decade. During his tenure, John played a pivotal role in driving the growth of the game in Queensland and New South Wales, leaving behind a lasting legacy for the sport.
Richard Goyder, the AFL Commission chair, praised John’s vision and dedication to the game. He highlighted John’s achievements as a player and his subsequent service to the AFL, both in honorary roles and as a commissioner. Goyder extended his condolences to John’s family as they mourn his loss.
In addition to his accomplishments in Australian rules football, John also excelled in cricket. He represented Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield before shifting his focus to football. Despite South Melbourne’s relocation to Sydney, John remained a passionate supporter of the team.
John’s passing coincided with the unfortunate death of Matthew Rendell, a former Fitzroy champion and renowned recruiter, who suffered a fatal heart attack while walking his dog.
John Heriot, a teammate and close friend of John’s, recalled him as a brilliant and brave player. Heriot emphasized John’s skills as a centre half-forward, describing him as a valuable asset to the team. He also praised John’s spirited commitment to the club, noting his talent for singing and telling jokes. Heriot fondly remembered John’s warm reception of new players and his support for aspiring footballers.
This news serves as a reminder of the significant impact individuals can have on the sporting world. Graeme John’s contributions as a player, coach, and commissioner have left an indelible mark on the AFL, and he will be dearly missed. The AFL community extends its deepest sympathies to John’s wife, Di, and their children Rebecca, Andrea, and Gareth during this difficult time.
With the loss of both Graeme John and Matthew Rendell, the AFL community mourns two individuals who made lasting contributions to the sport. Their legacies will endure, and their impact on Australian rules football will not be forgotten.
