As you were, Admiral: Australian sailing great Andrew Plympton passes away at 74
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Australia has lost one of its most influential sports administrators and a true champion of the sailing world with the passing of Andrew 'The Admiral' Plympton at the age of 74, after a valiant fight against lung cancer.
Andrew Plympton's journey in the world of sports was nothing short of remarkable.
A world champion sailor in 1988, Plympton's love for the sport was evident as he continued to sail until just weeks before his passing. His dedication to sailing was matched by his commitment to its growth and success on the global stage.
As a long-time president of Australian Sailing and an executive member of the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC), Plympton played a pivotal role in the resurgence of Australian sailing.
‘(Plympton) was instrumental in the development of the Gold Medal Plan after the Athens Olympics when sailing failed to win a single medal,’ the AOC said of Plympton.
This strategic initiative was a turning point for Australian sailing, leading to outstanding performances in subsequent Olympic Games, particularly in London and Rio.
‘Andrew wanted others to succeed in sport. His efforts were selfless, encouraging and caring,’ AOC Vice President Matt Allen said.
‘He was well known for his humour, irreverence and cutting wit. He had the ability to hold court with a few well-chosen words.’
‘His words were often politically incorrect but wickedly amusing. “As you were” was his favourite signing off message. A great man, mentor and friend.’
But Plympton's influence extended beyond the waters.
He also made his mark in Australian Rules Football as president of the AFL club St Kilda during the 1990s. His leadership was transformative, steering the club through financial difficulties and back into competitive form.
Plympton's tenure saw the Saints reach their first grand final in over two decades, a testament to his ability to rally the team and its supporters.
St Kilda’s aborted merger with Carlton, although not realised, demonstrated Plympton’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to the club's future.
Star players like Nathan Burke, Robert Harvey, and Stewart Loewe played pivotal roles under his presidency, and their commitment to the club was a reflection of Plympton's own dedication.
According to Burke, Plympton was ‘a wonderful man in many ways'.
‘(He) was a magnificent contributor to the Saints and a man who could entertain a whole room but always make you feel he was there for you too. Will miss him but so glad I knew him.’
Andrew Plympton's personality was as large as his contributions to sport.
Described by those who knew him as a wonderful man with the ability to entertain a room while making each individual feel valued, Plympton's sense of humour and larrikin persona were as legendary as his leadership skills.
St Kilda Football Club expressed deep sadness at the news of his passing, acknowledging Plympton's indelible mark on the club's history.
‘Plympton, forever addressed as “Prez”, left an indelible mark on St Kilda’s story as he tackled the unenviable role of president with enthusiasm and dedication,’ the club said.
‘Plympton became president of St Kilda in 1993 and faced a massive task in resurrecting the club’s financial and playing positions. Initially intending to occupy the president’s chair for two or three seasons, Plympton stayed at the helm for eight seasons, until the end of 2000.’
‘By then St Kilda had become financially viable and had progressed to a grand final in 1997.’
‘The Save our Saints campaign, move of home games to Waverley Park, and then on to Docklands are just a few landmark issues Plympton tackled during his tenure.’
‘He was certainly no “arm’s length” president, which was highlighted when he filled in as a member of the bench staff for a game played interstate. He did not consider the role beneath him and as ever was keen to assist.’
‘Plympton restored respect and viability to St Kilda both on and off the field, and if a contribution is judged by leaving the club in a better state than when you found it then Andrew Plympton epitomised that ethos.’
In the broader sports community, Plympton's contributions were equally significant.
Elected to the AOC executive in 2009, he served until 2017 and was a board member of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame until his death.
His tenure on the Australian Sports Commission board, beginning in 2011, after his leadership of Australian Sailing (formerly Yachting Australia), was marked by his passion for sport and desire to see others succeed.
Andrew Plympton's passing is a great loss to Australian sport, but his legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
He is survived by his wife Kim and daughters Katrina and Amanda, who, along with the entire sporting community, mourn the loss of a great man.
As we bid farewell to Andrew Plympton, we reflect on his impact on Australian sport and offer our condolences to his loved ones.
His vision, leadership, and passion have left an indelible mark, and his memory will continue to inspire those who strive for greatness in the sporting arena.
As you were, Andrew Plympton. Your legacy will sail on.
Andrew Plympton's journey in the world of sports was nothing short of remarkable.
A world champion sailor in 1988, Plympton's love for the sport was evident as he continued to sail until just weeks before his passing. His dedication to sailing was matched by his commitment to its growth and success on the global stage.
As a long-time president of Australian Sailing and an executive member of the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC), Plympton played a pivotal role in the resurgence of Australian sailing.
Plympton was a huge influence on and off the water. Image Credit: mysailing.com.au
‘(Plympton) was instrumental in the development of the Gold Medal Plan after the Athens Olympics when sailing failed to win a single medal,’ the AOC said of Plympton.
This strategic initiative was a turning point for Australian sailing, leading to outstanding performances in subsequent Olympic Games, particularly in London and Rio.
‘Andrew wanted others to succeed in sport. His efforts were selfless, encouraging and caring,’ AOC Vice President Matt Allen said.
‘He was well known for his humour, irreverence and cutting wit. He had the ability to hold court with a few well-chosen words.’
‘His words were often politically incorrect but wickedly amusing. “As you were” was his favourite signing off message. A great man, mentor and friend.’
But Plympton's influence extended beyond the waters.
He also made his mark in Australian Rules Football as president of the AFL club St Kilda during the 1990s. His leadership was transformative, steering the club through financial difficulties and back into competitive form.
Plympton's tenure saw the Saints reach their first grand final in over two decades, a testament to his ability to rally the team and its supporters.
St Kilda’s aborted merger with Carlton, although not realised, demonstrated Plympton’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to the club's future.
Star players like Nathan Burke, Robert Harvey, and Stewart Loewe played pivotal roles under his presidency, and their commitment to the club was a reflection of Plympton's own dedication.
According to Burke, Plympton was ‘a wonderful man in many ways'.
‘(He) was a magnificent contributor to the Saints and a man who could entertain a whole room but always make you feel he was there for you too. Will miss him but so glad I knew him.’
Andrew Plympton's personality was as large as his contributions to sport.
Described by those who knew him as a wonderful man with the ability to entertain a room while making each individual feel valued, Plympton's sense of humour and larrikin persona were as legendary as his leadership skills.
St Kilda Football Club expressed deep sadness at the news of his passing, acknowledging Plympton's indelible mark on the club's history.
‘Plympton, forever addressed as “Prez”, left an indelible mark on St Kilda’s story as he tackled the unenviable role of president with enthusiasm and dedication,’ the club said.
‘Plympton became president of St Kilda in 1993 and faced a massive task in resurrecting the club’s financial and playing positions. Initially intending to occupy the president’s chair for two or three seasons, Plympton stayed at the helm for eight seasons, until the end of 2000.’
‘By then St Kilda had become financially viable and had progressed to a grand final in 1997.’
‘The Save our Saints campaign, move of home games to Waverley Park, and then on to Docklands are just a few landmark issues Plympton tackled during his tenure.’
‘He was certainly no “arm’s length” president, which was highlighted when he filled in as a member of the bench staff for a game played interstate. He did not consider the role beneath him and as ever was keen to assist.’
‘Plympton restored respect and viability to St Kilda both on and off the field, and if a contribution is judged by leaving the club in a better state than when you found it then Andrew Plympton epitomised that ethos.’
In the broader sports community, Plympton's contributions were equally significant.
Elected to the AOC executive in 2009, he served until 2017 and was a board member of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame until his death.
His tenure on the Australian Sports Commission board, beginning in 2011, after his leadership of Australian Sailing (formerly Yachting Australia), was marked by his passion for sport and desire to see others succeed.
Andrew Plympton's passing is a great loss to Australian sport, but his legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
He is survived by his wife Kim and daughters Katrina and Amanda, who, along with the entire sporting community, mourn the loss of a great man.
His vision, leadership, and passion have left an indelible mark, and his memory will continue to inspire those who strive for greatness in the sporting arena.
As you were, Andrew Plympton. Your legacy will sail on.
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for her today.
