Ron Barassi Poem by Francis Duggan

Ron Barassi a legend of Australian Rules Football
A renowned Premiership player and coach some claim the best of all
The players and coaches of Australia's indigenous game
In his chosen sport one in the Hall of Fame.

In his young years he played for the Melbourne Club
And in Richmond Victoria he once owned a pub
Of his place in sporting glory he cannot be denied
Through Australian Rules Football he is known Worldwide.

In Australian Rules Football doubtless an all time great
A man that the fans of the game celebrate
He coached teams to greatness he played against the best
One never found to be wanting when put to the test.

A proud man Barassi of him 'twould be fair to say
That from a challenge he never backed away
Now into his seventies his best days long gone
And time tames the best of them it has tamed Ron.

In years from now the historians of Australian Rules Football
The name of Ron Barassi will surely recall
With Melbourne, Carlton, North Melbourne and Sydney he made his name
As a great player and coach of Australia's indigenous game.