Saddening news has hit the football community with the passing of Geelong great Michael Turner, who lost his two-year battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 70.
A Brilliant Player and Talented Coach
Turner played 245 games for the Cats between 1974 and 1988, kicking 285 goals and captaining the team for three years. He was a standout player, earning a spot in Geelong’s official Team of the Century.
But his impact on the game went beyond his playing career. As a player development manager at Geelong Falcons, he discovered and nurtured some of the modern-day greats, including Gary Ablett Jr, Patrick Dangerfield, Luke Hodge, and Jonathan Brown, to name a few.
A Legacy That Will Live On
During his 25-year stint as talent manager at the Falcons, an incredible 134 players were drafted to AFL clubs. His dedication and passion for the sport left an indelible mark on the game.
“Put simply, the Geelong Falcons aren’t the program it is today without Mick,” said the club in a statement. “His legacy will live long in the walls of Highton Reserve and in all the faces who have come through the club.”
Tributes Pour In
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon, who recently granted Turner life membership, offered his condolences to the family, saying, “Mick Turner was a brilliant wingman… Post his playing career, he gave so much more to the game as a mentor and confidant to generations of talented young players.”
Barwon Heads Football Club also paid tribute to the “true legend,” highlighting his significant influence on the community and his dedication to the sport.
Former AFL player agent Ricky Nixon remembered Turner as a “legend who went out of his way to help me set up my player management early days.”
A Family Man
Turner is survived by his wife Karen, sons Levi and Che, their partners Brooke and Grace, and his precious grandchildren – Frankie, Ziggy, Raff, and Arlo. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Michael Turner – a true legend of the game.