Ronald Dale Barassi is an iconic figure in Australian football, renowned for his contributions as a player and coach.
Barassi has become a national sporting icon, with influence far beyond the playing field.
He was a pioneer in revolutionising the game, notably through his role in developing the ruck-rover position, which distinguished him in his early playing career with the Melbourne Football Club.
Barassi’s career achievements, which included 10 premierships, established him as a dominant force in Australian Football League (AFL) history.
He continued to cement his legacy as a coach by leading many clubs to championships.
Barassi’s influence is recognized through his Hall of Fame Legend induction, recognizing his profound impact on the AFL community.
File
- – Full name: Ronald Dale Barassi
- – Nickname: Ron Barassi
- – Date of birth: February 27, 1936
- – Age as of 2024: 88 years old (deceased)
- – Gender: Male
- – Place of birth: Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia
- – Nationality: Australian
- – Occupation: AFL Player and Coach
- – Height: None
- – Parents: Ron Barassi Sr., Elza Barassi
- – Siblings: None
- – Spouse: Cherryl Copeland
- – Children: Ron Jr., Susan Barassi
- – Relationship status: Married
- – Religion: None
- – Ethnicity: Italian-Australian
- – Net worth: $50 million
Early life and education
Ron Barassi was born on 27 February 1936 in Castlemaine, Victoria, and as of 2024, he is 88 years old. Barassi’s early years were deeply influenced by the legacy of his father, Ron Barassi Sr., a former Melbourne player who died in World War II. His father’s early death played a major role in shaping Barassi’s life and career.
After his father died, Barassi was raised by his mother, Elza, in Melbourne, where he grew up playing Australian Rules football. He attended University High School, where his natural talent for the sport began to emerge.
Barassi comes from an Italian-Australian family, and this heritage has shaped his personality and drive significantly. His education took a back seat as his life became increasingly consumed by his burgeoning football career.
Barassi’s professional football career was also greatly influenced by his family’s close relationship with the Melbourne Football Club, where his father was a prominent player.
Personal life
Ron Barassi is married to Cherryl Copeland and has two children, Ron Jr. and Susan Barassi. Family has always been an important part of Barassi’s personal life, with relationships and children taking center stage off the soccer field.
There is no public record of any extramarital affairs or scandal surrounding his marriage, which remained a private but essential part of his personal life. In his later years, Barassi maintained close ties with his family and was often seen at public events with his wife and children.
Career
Ron Barassi’s AFL career is legendary. Starting out as a player for the Melbourne Football Club, Barassi quickly became known for his remarkable skill and leadership on the field.
Between 1955 and 1964, he played a key role in helping the club win six league titles. Barassi’s invention of the ruck-rover position became one of the defining moments of his playing career.
In 1965, Barassi controversially moved to the Carlton Football Club, where he became captain and coach and led the team to victory in the 1968 premiership.
Barassi’s coaching philosophy emphasises persistence and innovation, and he applied this philosophy while coaching at North Melbourne and then the Sydney Swans.
His influence was instrumental in North Melbourne’s premierships in 1975 and 1977, further cementing his legacy as one of the AFL’s greatest coaches. During his career, Barassi played in 10 premierships, both as a player and coach, a record that remains unrivalled in the AFL.
Prize
- – 10 titles (6 as player, 4 as coach)
- – AFL Hall of Fame legend
- – Life Member of the Melbourne Football Club (1962)
- – Melbourne Football Club Hall of Fame (2001)
- – Melbourne Football Club Captain of the Century
- – All Australia (3 times)
- – Australian Sports Hall of Fame Legend
Net worth
Ron Barassi’s estimated net worth in 2024 is around $50 million. Barassi’s wealth comes primarily from his long and illustrious career in the AFL, as a player and coach, as well as a media commentator and public figure in Australian football.
Death
Ron Barassi passed away on 16 September 2023, aged 87. His death marked the end of an era in Australian football, with tributes pouring in from across the AFL community and beyond.
Barassi’s passing is a huge loss for the sport, as he was one of its most influential and beloved figures. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of players and coaches.
Argumentative
Despite being a respected figure in Australian football, Ron Barassi has not been immune to controversy. One of the most notable incidents occurred during his coaching career when he became known for his tough, uncompromising approach to leadership.
Barassi was frequently criticised for his aggressive coaching style, which some felt was too harsh on players. This controversy came to a head during his time at Carlton Football Club, when a number of players publicly expressed their dissatisfaction with his demanding methods.
Another controversy surrounding B concerns his outspoken views on the commercialisation of the AFL. He has often expressed strong opinions on the direction of the league, particularly on the growing influence of corporate sponsorship and media deals.
His comments have sparked debate within the AFL community, with some supporting his stance while others believe he is opposing needed changes in the sport.
Social media
- – Instagram: None
- – Twitter: None
Book
- Barassi: The Life Behind the Legend
- Ron Barassi: Chronicles His Impact in Football and Beyond
- AFL Icon: The Ron Barassi Story
