Geelong Football Club is in mourning following the death of former coach John Devine. Let’s see more details about John Devine and his cause of death.
What happened to John Devine?
Geelong is mourning the passing of premiership defender and former coach, John Devine, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 82.
A Legend in the Tasmanian Football Hall of Fame, ‘JD’ played over 100 matches for Geelong before a stellar playing and coaching career at North Hobart.
Devine coached the Demons to premierships in 1967, 1969, and 1974, represented Tasmania as a player, captain, or coach seven times, and is captain of North Hobart’s Team of the Century.
Our thoughts go to John’s family, friends, and the broader Tasmanian football community.
Cause of death
Geelong and Tasmanian football are grieving the loss of arguably one of the toughest men to pull on the boots after respected great John Devine lost his recent health battle.
As per the source, it is said that John Devine has lost his battle with Dementia and Parkinson’s disease. As soon as the news came out friends and families are pouring a condolence message on Social Media. It is very sad news for his loved ones.
Who was John Devine?
John Devine made his senior debut for Geelong in the Victorian Football League (VFL) in 1960. He was born and raised in Colac in Victoria’s western region. John Devine was a fiercely tough defender with a loping running gait. He was well-liked for his commitment to Geelong both on and off the field. As a player, he was feared for his unyielding attitude toward the game and his opponents.
Devine played for Geelong in the 1963 premiership team and was recognized as one of the greatest players for the Cats in their victory over Hawthorn. He played for Geelong during a particularly prosperous time, from 1962 to 1966, when the Cats competed in the finals series.
Recognized as a ‘big game’ player, Devine was named amongst the Cat’s best in six of the nine finals they contested during his time with Geelong.
John’s Early Career life
| Following victories over NWFU champions Latrobe (led and coached by Darrel Baldock) and NTFA champions Launceston, Devine captain coached two additional TFL championships in 1969 and 1974. He also won the Tasmanian state championship in 1969. (coached by Bob Withers). North Hobart, under the leadership of Devine, defeated Launceston by a record-breaking 20 goals in the state premiership match at York Park. When Devine relocated to Tasmania in 1967, local football fans had the opportunity to watch the former Geelong hardman play numerous memorable matches that season and in years to come. The Tasmanian Football Hall of Fame has given two of these matches official recognition: the 1967 state championship game and the 1970 Tasmanian representative match. Memorable games involving North Hobart, Tasmania, and John Devine at his playing best include:
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John Devine- Geelong’s coach
John Devine returned to Geelong in an official capacity in 1986 when he became Geelong’s coach after the sacking of Tom Hafey. When Geelong finished tenth at the end of the 1988 season Devine was not retained as coach. However, during his tenure, Devine recruited many players including future Geelong ‘Team of the Century ruck rover Garry Hocking, future captain Mark Bairstow, Billy Brownless, Bruce Lindner, Barry Stoneham, and David Cameron. Each of these individuals would play a role in the team reaching the VFL grand final in 1989 under Malcolm Blight.
After his playing and coaching days ended. John Devine became a successful businessman and politician in Tasmania . He was recognized by North Hobart Football Club and Tasmanian Football for his contribution to the game.
Condolence Posted on Social Media
Nicholas Baker Posted
I remember chatting with him many times at his little supermarket up the hill from my school in Newtown St Roberts. You are a legend, the shoulders on which future champions would stand to establish the best AFL club that exists today. RIP mate.
RIP John Devine. pic.twitter.com/HdQ2ek2JSh
— The Hoops (@TheHoopsShow) January 29, 2023
Tony o Brien Posted
As a kid growing up in the 60s, I loved the whole team. Farmer, Wade, and Goggin my favs but I have my pic of the flag side of 63 on my study wall. John Devine is next to Bobby Davis in his blue suede shoes. RIP.
As a new fan of the Cats, having discovered the AFL in June 2022, I am awed by the great history of the team and the legacy of past greats. Another one of the team’s legends has sadly passed. RIP
Harold Jevis Posted
Rip to the man that said to me please meet you Harold. I went to school with your father yrs ago. Rip John Devine and condolences to his family and friends now up above with dad.
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