Ron Barassi AM

Ron Barassi AM played for the Melbourne Demons in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming captain of the side in 1960. With Barassi on the side Melbourne won six premierships, including two when he was vice-captain and two when he was captain. One of the first players to change clubs for higher remuneration, he went to Carlton as captain-coach in 1965. In 1968 Carlton won its first premiership in 21 years. In 1970 the team came from 44 points behind at half time to win against Collingwood - the fifth grand final loss in as many games for the latter. Barassi began coaching North Melbourne in 1973, after the club had taken out the wooden spoon for 1972. Within three years they had won the premiership. In 1977 they again played the Grand Final, against Collingwood, but the match resulted in only the second drawn final in VFL history. The following week North Melbourne won. In the 1980s and 1990s Barassi coached Melbourne and the Sydney Swans. He now occupies himself with a variety of business, media and personal interests and is a sought-after public speaker. Inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1987, Barassi is one of only 26 Sport Australia Hall of Fame Legends.