Western Australian football has lost a giant, with the news that Hall of Fame Legend John Todd died overnight. Todd, 86, one of WA’s most decorated coaches and players, passed away in his sleep after an illness. He was in rarified air in terms of his contribution to the game. A Sandover medallist at 17 who was cut down by a knee injury but still went on to win three best-and-fairests at South Fremantle, played 13 games for WA and was All-Australian in 1961.
South Fremantle CEO Cameron Britt said the club was “deeply saddened” by the passing of an icon of the game. “Today is a sad day for the Bulldog family, and WA football at large,” Britt said. “Today we celebrate the life of a legend. “South Fremantle offers condolences to all members of the Todd family at this sad time.” Todd transitioned as a captain-coach of the Bulldogs in 1959 before coaching outright in 1966-68 and 1996-1998.