A state memorial service to honour the life of AFL legend Ronald (Ron) Dale Barassi AM will be held at 11am on Friday, November 10, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Ron was the first player to be inaugurated into the Australian Football Hall of Fame as a ‘Legend’, and one of only four AFL players to be elevated to the same status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.
Ron’s playing career remains unmatched – spanning from 1953 to 1969, he played 254 games, kicked 330 goals and coached over 500 games.
As a player and coach, Ron appeared in 17 grand finals and won 10 premierships. Premier Jacinta Allan said he leaves behind an enormous legacy.
“Ron Barassi was a sporting icon – player, coach and mentor – who reshaped the game,” she said. “He will be remembered for his leadership, honesty, integrity, humility, generosity, and courage.
“We know Victorians are eager to celebrate this great man for his contribution to AFL and beyond, and there is no better venue to farewell a legend of the game than the MCG.”
The state memorial will celebrate Ron’s extraordinary life and the contribution he made not only to Australian football, but to the community.
A great believer in giving back to the community, Ron made contributions to countless organisations and causes throughout his life including all levels of football – women’s, grassroots, country and international.
Ron became a member of the Order of Australia in 1978, a life member of the AFL in 1979. He was also a life member of four clubs – Melbourne, Carlton, North Melbourne and Sydney.
He also received a bravery award in 2012 for coming to the defence of a woman who was being attacked on the street on new year’s day in Melbourne in 2009.
Family, friends, and supporters are invited to attend, and to further recognise the impact of Ron’s life, members of the public will be able to register to attend the service.
Details: vic.gov.au/ron-barassi
