Leigh Crawford, a former ruckman for the Geelong Football Club, has died "following a long illness," per his obituary. He was 80.
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Crawford, who had celebrated his 80th birthday on April 19, played for Geelong during the 1974 and 1975 VFL seasons.
He made his league debut in 1974 at age 27 and appeared in 31 senior games across two seasons, including 14 in his first year and 17 the following season. Wearing No. 32, Crawford contributed during a challenging period for the club.
Listed at 199 centimeters and 89 kilograms, Crawford used his size and athleticism effectively in the ruck. Over his VFL career, he recorded 354 disposals, including 233 kicks and 121 handballs, along with 114 marks and six goals.
Before joining Geelong, Crawford played with the Sunshine Football Club in the Victorian Football Association, where he established himself as a dependable ruckman.
He is remembered for his contributions to Geelong and his role in the club's history.
Further details were not immediately available.
"Debuting for Geelong in 1974 at the age of 27, and wearing the No. 32 guernsey, he played 31 senior games across two seasons - 14 matches in his first year and 17 in 1975," the Geelong website reads.
"Across his VFL career he recorded 354 disposals (233 kicks, 121 handballs), 114 marks and six goals, contributing consistently in a challenging era for the Club.
"Before joining Geelong, Leigh began his senior football journey with the Sunshine Football Club in the VFA, where he established himself as a strong and reliable ruckman."
