The Melbourne Football Club is saddened to hear of the passing of premiership hero Brian Dixon.
Dixon who played 252 games for the club, was a courageous and consistent player, known for his work rate and athletic ability playing on the wing.
Melbourne Football Club President, Brad Green, paid tribute to a player who embodied Demon Spirit.
“Brian was a great of our club and someone who has left a lasting mark, not just on Melbourne, but on the game as a whole,” Green said.
“He was a five-time premiership player, a life member, a Hall of Fame inductee, and was honoured in the Australian Football Hall of Fame, recognition reserved for the very best our game has seen.
“Brian’s football achievements speak for themselves, but his love for the club was just as significant. He was proud of our history, and helped shape it, both through his on the field success and his connection to the club in the years that followed.
“On behalf of everyone at the Melbourne Football Club, I want to extend our condolences to his wife Carmel, and to Brian’s family and friends.”
Dixon’s playing career at Melbourne coincided with one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.
Under the legendary coaching of Norm Smith, the Demons became a formidable foe, and Dixon played an integral role in their dominance.
This included playing in five of the club’s premierships – 1956, 1957, 1959, 1960 and 1964 – and was named as Best and Fairest in 1960.
He was a life member of the Melbourne Football Club, a member of the MFC Hall of Fame, and selected in the Club’s Team of the Century.
When he retired at the end of 1968, Dixon was then Melbourne’s games record holder, achieving 252 games in a stellar career.
Dixon’s legacy continued far beyond his playing career, including coaching North Melbourne in 1971 and 1972.
His contribution to the Melbourne Football Club, to the game of Australian football, and to the broader community was profound. He will forever hold a special place in our history.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Carmel, his family, friends and former teammates.
