Collingwood’s 1953 premiership star Ron Richards, regarded as one of the AFL club’s most revered figures, has died aged 85.
Richards, who also served the Magpies as reserve-grade coach, match committee chairman and director, lost a long battle with illness on Friday morning.
Collingwood president Eddie McGuire described Richards as a Magpie royal. He said Richards was able to emerge from the considerable shadow of his celebrated older brother and 1953 premiership captain Lou, helping to guide Collingwood for decades.
Ron Richards was one of Collingwood’s greatest servants, McGuire said.
“Ron distinguished himself in everything he did at Collingwood, be it as a star of the 1953 grand final who had been picked out by Jock McHale for an unaccustomed role on the wing, coach or administrator,” McGuire said.
“Ron was best on ground in the flag triumph.
“Later, as Lou moved into the world of show business and the media, Ron dedicated himself to Collingwood, something he cared for deeply.
“He served as a thirds and seconds coach. He spent time on the board and he sat by the side of Tom Hafey and Leigh Matthews as chairman of selectors.
“In any discussion of great Collingwood men, Ron Richards — Collingwood life member, AFL life member, legend and premiership star — cannot be overlooked.”
Former teammate Murray Weideman said Richards was small, tough and courageous.
“It was a great thrill to play in that side and, if you look at Lou (Richards), Des Healey, Bob Rose, Thorold Merrett and all those great, great players to play for Collingwood that year, Ron was one of them,” ex-Collingwood skipper Weideman said.
Richards played 143 games from 1947-56.
He was Matthews’ match committee chairman when the Magpies won the 1990 flag, their first since 1958.