The AFL has paid tribute to former commissioner Graeme John, who died on Monday after a long battle with illness. He was 80.
John played 144-games in his top-level career for East Perth and South Melbourne, and won All Australian selection at the 1966 Carnival.
After his playing career, he spent three seasons as coach for South Melbourne, and then another three years as club president.
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Post footy, he became managing director of Australia Post, before he was appointed AFL commissioner in 2001, a role he would hold for the next decade.
“Graeme John was a high-class centre half-forward who was good enough to win state selection in both WA and Victoria, before dedicating years of service to the game off-field in honorary roles at both club and senior AFL level,” AFL Commission chair Richard Goyder said.
“His vision as part of the AFL Commission helped drive the game’s growth in Queensland and New South Wales, and built a powerful legacy for the competition we have today.
“Our thoughts are with Di and children Rebecca, Andrea and Gareth at this terribly sad time for them.”
John was also a gun cricketer, and was selected in WA’s Sheffield Shield side before turning his focus to footy.
He remained a passionate Bloods supporter through their relocation to Sydney.
Sydney Swans Team of the Century fullback John Heriot – who was teammates with John and a longstanding friend – described him as a “brilliant and brave” player.
“He was a really good friend. And I had the privilege and pleasure of having him as a teammate during his career at the club,” Heriot said.
“He was a great player in the hardest position of the field. Brilliant and brave.
“At the same time, he was a terrific clubman. He was not only an accomplished singer but a very funny joke-teller. He was always welcoming of new players to the club and all our younger aspiring footballers.
“I was proud he was my mate.”
John’s death came just hours after former Fitzroy champion and renowned recruiter Matthew Rendell suffered a fatal heart attack while walking his dog.
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