After battling motor neurone illness, AFL legend Geoff Ablett passed away.
The 71-year-old Ablett won VFL premierships in 1976 and 1978 while playing 202 games for Hawthorn.
The elder brother of legendary football player Gary Ablett Sr. revealed in February that he received an MND diagnosis shortly before Christmas Eve in 2025.
Ablett, who is renowned for his speed, acknowledged that after receiving the devastating diagnosis, he “shed a few tears.”
Online condolences swiftly followed the announcement of Ablett’s passing: “One of the most caring blokes who pulled on our jumper and performed for the club week in, week out,” a Hawthorn supporter wrote.
After battling motor neurone illness, AFL veteran Geoff Ablett passed away (above, during his playing days with Richmond).
The elder brother of legendary football player Gary Ablett Sr. revealed in February that he was given an MND diagnosis shortly before Christmas Eve in 2025.
During his illustrious career, the legendary football player won two VFL premierships with the Hawks.
Another Hawks fan stated, “We should all celebrate the life of a true gentleman, a champion bloke.” Ablett claimed that another football legend Neale Daniher (right), who also has MND, motivated him to continue fighting.
The legendary Essendon player Neale Daniher, who was given an MND diagnosis in 2013, touched people’s hearts earlier this year with a letter to Ablett.
“Hello Geoff, this is Neale Daniher,” he said. “I’m sorry to learn of your diagnosis.”We have both experienced some major setbacks on the football pitch as players from the same era, but this beast will undoubtedly be our hardest opponent. Best of luck. I hope you’re receiving lots of love and encouragement. Best wishes, buddy.
In response, Ablett said that Daniher’s encouraging remarks motivated him to “keep pushing on.”
The winger joined Richmond in 1983 after making his debut in 1973 and winning two flags with the Hawks.
Before hanging up his boots at the end of the season, he relocated to St Kilda in 1985.
“To put it this way, no one ever ran away from me bouncing the ball,” Ablett remarked, looking back on his football career with fondness. “When they saw me approaching, they would say: “F*** it, I’d better kick it.”
