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• Geoff Ablett passed away following a struggle with motor neurone disease.

AFLThe legendary Geoff Ablett has passed away after a struggle with motor neurone disease.

Ablett, aged 71, participated in 202 matches with Hawthorn, securing VFL championships in 1976 and 1978.

In February, the elder brother of football legend Gary Ablett Sr stated that he wasdiagnosed with MND just before Christmas Eve in 2025.

Known for his quickness, Ablett admitted he ‘felt a bit emotional’ after the devastating news.

After news of Ablett’s passing was confirmed, messages of condolence emerged rapidly on the internet.

One of the kindest men who stood by our sidejumper“and performed for the club week in, week out,” said a Hawthorn supporter.

“We must all honor the life of a genuine gentleman, a real champion,” said another fan of the Hawks.

Neale Daniher, a legendary figure from Essendon, captured people’s hearts after delivering a message to Ablett earlier this year, following his MND diagnosis in 2013.

Hello Geoff, this is Neale Daniher,” he said. “I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis.

Being soccer players from the same time period, we’ve both experienced some major challenges on the pitch, but there’s no question this opponent will be our most difficult challenge.

Hope you’re doing well. I wish you lots of love and encouragement. Best wishes, friend.

Ablett stated that Daniher’s encouraging remarks motivated him to “continue striving forward.”

The wingermade his first appearance in 1973, securing two premierships with the Hawks prior to moving to Richmond in 1983.

He subsequently relocated to St Kilda in 1985 and then retired from the game at the conclusion of the season.

Ablett looked back on his football career with nostalgia, saying, “Put it this way, no one ever ran away from me while carrying the ball,” he remarked.

When they noticed me approaching, they’d say: ‘Forget it, I’d better give it a try.’

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