Western Australian football has lost a giant, with the news that Hall of Fame Legend John Todd died overnight.

Todd, 86, one of WA’s most decorated coaches and players, passed away in his sleep after an illness.

He was in rarified air in terms of his contribution to the game.

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A Sandover medallist at 17 who was cut down by a knee injury but still went on to win three best-and-fairests at South Fremantle, played 13 games for WA and was All-Australian in 1961.

Todd coached the West Coast Eagles in 1988 and 1989 and was also a six-time WAFL premiership coach with East Fremantle, Swan Districts and South Fremantle. He coached in seven grand finals, winning six.

He also coached WA in 14 games and Australia in six International Rules Tests.

He was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2003 as coach and made a Legend of the West Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

South Fremantle CEO Cameron Britt said the club was “deeply saddened” by the passing of an icon of the game.

“Today is a sad day for the Bulldog family, and WA football at large,” Britt said. “Today we celebrate the life of a legend.

“South Fremantle offers condolences to all members of the Todd family at this sad time.”

Todd transitioned as a captain-coach of the Bulldogs in 1959 before coaching outright in 1966-68 and 1996-1998.

In 1997, Todd led the Bulldogs to the 1997 flag with a win over arch-rival East Fremantle.

“John Todd is one of WA’s most decorated individuals, with AFL Hall of Fame, WA Hall of Fame (Legend), South Fremantle Hall of Fame (Legend), and South Fremantle & Swan Districts Life Membership, to name only a selection,” the statement read.

At Swan Districts, Todd was the club’s most successful and longest serving coach, winning four flags over 19 seasons, 12 finals series and 424 matches.

He also coached East Fremantle to the 1974 WANFL premiership.

For the full story, visit thewest.com.au