Ron Barassi

Who is Ron Barassi?

Ronald Dale Barassi, Jr AM is a former Australian rules football player and coach. During a long and decorated career, Barassi has been one of the most important figures in the history of Australian football. His father, Ron Barassi, Sr., was killed at Tobruk during World War II. The young Barassi spent his latter teenage years living with Norm Smith, coach of the Melbourne Football Club and a former teammate of his father.

Barassi's name is synonymous with Australian football. He is held by many as the game's greatest identity acknowledged by being the first player to be inaugurated into the Australian Football Hall of Fame as a Legend.

Barassi's coaching career was both successful and regarded by many as revolutionary. Barassi's clean record and passion for the game has earned him a place as celebrity and popular culture figure in Australia. He was named Victorian of the Year in 2009.