Football World Pays Tribute to AFL Legend Mick Malthouse After His Passing at 71

Football World Pays Tribute to AFL Legend Mick Malthouse After His Passing at 71

Malthouse’s extraordinary contribution to Australian rules football spans more than four decades, earning him a revered place in the sport’s history. Beginning his playing career in 1972, he went on to feature in 174 VFL games with St Kilda and Richmond, famously playing in Richmond’s 1980 premiership side.

But it was in the coach’s box that Malthouse truly etched his name into AFL folklore.

Across a record-setting 718 senior games as coach — the most in VFL/AFL history — Malthouse led Footscray, West Coast, Collingwood, and Carlton. His crowning achievements included two premierships with the West Coast Eagles in 1992 and 1994, and the long-awaited 2010 flag with Collingwood, ending a two-decade drought for the Magpies.

Malthouse was known for his uncompromising standards, tactical brilliance, and deep care for his players. His ability to lead and evolve over multiple eras of the game earned him admiration and respect across generations.

In 2019, his iconic career was formally recognised with induction into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.

The Collingwood Football Club released a heartfelt statement today: “Mick was more than a coach — he was a mentor, a leader, and a cornerstone of our club’s identity. His legacy will live on in black and white forever.”

Malthouse is survived by his wife Nanette and their four children. Tributes have poured in from across the AFL community, honouring a man whose life was defined by passion, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness.

Flags fly at half-mast across AFL clubs today, as the league says goodbye to one of its greatest minds and most enduring spirits.