North Melbourne Football Club is mourning the loss of Ron Barassi, their first-ever premiership coach and a football icon. Barassi’s passing has left the club with heavy hearts. The club expressed their deepest condolences to Barassi’s family and friends..
A true legend of the game.
North Melbourne carries heavy hearts following the passing of football icon and the club’s first-ever premiership coach, Ron Barassi, earlier today
Our deepest condolences go out to Ron’s family and friends.#Kangas
— North Melbourne FC (@NMFCOfficial) September 16, 2023
Obituary – Death News : North Melbourne Football Club is mourning the loss of a true legend of the game, Ron Barassi, who passed away today. Barassi was not only an icon of Australian rules football but also the club’s first-ever premiership coach, leaving a lasting legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.
Ron Barassi’s impact on the sport cannot be overstated. Born on February 27, 1936, Barassi’s passion for football was evident from an early age. He grew up in a family deeply connected to the game, with his father, Ron Barassi Sr., being a prominent player and coach himself.
Barassi’s playing career began at the Melbourne Football Club, where he quickly established himself as a formidable force on the field. Known for his relentless work ethic, exceptional skills, and leadership qualities, Barassi became one of the most revered players of his time. He played a pivotal role in Melbourne’s success during the 1950s, helping the club secure six premierships.
After retiring as a player, Barassi transitioned into coaching, and it was during his tenure at North Melbourne that he etched his name into the annals of football history. In 1975, he led the Kangaroos to their first-ever premiership, a monumental achievement that forever cemented his status as a coaching legend.
Barassi’s coaching style was revolutionary, characterized by his focus on teamwork, discipline, and strategic innovation. He was known for his ability to inspire his players and extract the best out of them, earning their unwavering respect and admiration. Under his guidance, North Melbourne became a formidable force, setting new benchmarks for excellence and transforming the club into a powerhouse.
Beyond his coaching prowess, Barassi made significant contributions to the game off the field. He was instrumental in the development of youth football programs, nurturing young talents and shaping the future of the sport. His dedication and commitment to football were recognized with numerous accolades, including inductions into the Australian Football Hall of Fame and the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.
Ron Barassi’s impact extended far beyond his coaching and playing career. He was a role model for generations of footballers, embodying the values of integrity, resilience, and passion. His influence on the game continues to be felt today, with his coaching philosophies and strategies still being studied and implemented by aspiring coaches.
As the news of his passing spreads throughout the football community, tributes are pouring in from players, coaches, and fans alike. The loss of such an influential figure has left a void that will be difficult to fill. The North Melbourne Football Club and the entire football fraternity extend their deepest condolences to Ron Barassi’s family and friends during this difficult time.
While the cause of his death is not currently known, it is clear that Ron Barassi’s legacy will live on forever. His contributions to Australian rules football have left an indelible mark, and his name will forever be synonymous with excellence, dedication, and the true spirit of the game. May he rest in peace.
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@NMFCOfficial wrote
A true legend of the game. North Melbourne carries heavy hearts following the passing of football icon and the club’s first-ever premiership coach, Ron Barassi, earlier today Our deepest condolences go out to Ron's family and friends. #Kangas