AFL pioneer (94) passes away–tributes flow for a legend who shaped the game
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The world of Australian football is built on legends—figures who shape the game and leave behind a legacy that endures for generations.
When news broke of a significant loss in the AFL community, it sent ripples through the sport, sparking reflections on a life that profoundly influenced the game.
What followed was a wave of tributes that highlighted not just a career, but a monumental impact that reshaped the landscape of footy.
The Geelong Cats mourned the loss of Cyril 'Bill' McMaster, a two-time premiership winner and pioneer of Australian rules football, who passed away at the age of 94.
McMaster, an imposing ruckman, was instrumental in Geelong’s premiership victories in 1951 and 1952.
He was remembered for his significant contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, and hailed as a trailblazer in Australian football.
After retiring from playing in 1954, McMaster returned to Geelong in 1971 as a coach, leading the team for two seasons.
In 1973, he became football’s first full-time recruiting officer, a role he excelled in for over 20 years.
McMaster was crucial in recruiting legends like Gary Ablett Snr, Greg Williams, Garry Hocking, and Paul Couch, leaving a lasting legacy at the club.
His dedication earned him life membership with Geelong and prestigious accolades, including the Jack Titus Service Award, R.J. Hickey Award, and the Australian Sports Medal in 2000.
In January 2023, McMaster was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to Australian rules football in the Barwon South West Region.
Reflecting on his premiership triumphs, McMaster said: ‘We had a very good side who played with spirit.’
‘It was just one of those sides that comes around every now and again.
‘You don’t get that very often, you have to have particular players.
‘Hick [coach Reg Hickey] was also very strong…he wouldn’t stand for any nonsense.’
McMaster was part of Geelong’s legendary team that achieved 26 consecutive victories between 1952 and 1953.
After a serious injury in the 1953 Grand Final loss to Collingwood, McMaster returned to Lake Bolac and led the team to consecutive premierships in 1955 and 1956.
He later moved to Mortlake, where he played for seven more seasons.
Bill’s contributions as a player, coach, and recruiter not only shaped the sport but also inspired generations to come.
Rest in peace, Cyril 'Bill' McMaster.
When news broke of a significant loss in the AFL community, it sent ripples through the sport, sparking reflections on a life that profoundly influenced the game.
What followed was a wave of tributes that highlighted not just a career, but a monumental impact that reshaped the landscape of footy.
The Geelong Cats mourned the loss of Cyril 'Bill' McMaster, a two-time premiership winner and pioneer of Australian rules football, who passed away at the age of 94.
McMaster, an imposing ruckman, was instrumental in Geelong’s premiership victories in 1951 and 1952.
He was remembered for his significant contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, and hailed as a trailblazer in Australian football.
After retiring from playing in 1954, McMaster returned to Geelong in 1971 as a coach, leading the team for two seasons.
In 1973, he became football’s first full-time recruiting officer, a role he excelled in for over 20 years.
McMaster was crucial in recruiting legends like Gary Ablett Snr, Greg Williams, Garry Hocking, and Paul Couch, leaving a lasting legacy at the club.
His dedication earned him life membership with Geelong and prestigious accolades, including the Jack Titus Service Award, R.J. Hickey Award, and the Australian Sports Medal in 2000.
In January 2023, McMaster was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to Australian rules football in the Barwon South West Region.
Reflecting on his premiership triumphs, McMaster said: ‘We had a very good side who played with spirit.’
‘It was just one of those sides that comes around every now and again.
‘You don’t get that very often, you have to have particular players.
‘Hick [coach Reg Hickey] was also very strong…he wouldn’t stand for any nonsense.’
McMaster was part of Geelong’s legendary team that achieved 26 consecutive victories between 1952 and 1953.
After a serious injury in the 1953 Grand Final loss to Collingwood, McMaster returned to Lake Bolac and led the team to consecutive premierships in 1955 and 1956.
He later moved to Mortlake, where he played for seven more seasons.
Bill’s contributions as a player, coach, and recruiter not only shaped the sport but also inspired generations to come.
Rest in peace, Cyril 'Bill' McMaster.
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