All involved with the Melbourne Football Club and the MFC Past and Present Players’ and Officials’ Association were saddened to hear of the recent passing of Stephen Kerley.

A member of Melbourne’s 1971 Under 19s premiership side, Kerley – who found his niche at full back - made his senior debut in red and blue in the final round of that season; a loss against Hawthorn at Glenferrie Oval.

The next season – 1972 – saw the club drop a rung on the ladder from seventh to eighth despite coach Ian Ridley’s enthusiasm and ‘desire for success’. However, it was hoped that the likes of Kerley – named alongside Biffin, Brewer, Callery and Keenan – would develop to improve the Demons’ lot in future seasons.

Melbourne’s standing did not improve during the remainder of Kerley’s tenure: 43 games between 1971 and 1974. Kerley’s form was adversely affected when he was knocked out cold in a game halfway through 1973; he then played just ten games in his last season. Melbourne finished last in 1974, and it was time for Kerley to hang up his boots and head to South Australia.

It was here that Kerley found his niche, while retaining his red and blue allegiances. Playing for Norwood – The Redlegs – he settled in at centre half-back, ultimately playing 132 games between 1975 and 1980, including premierships in 1975 and 1978, and South Australian state representation in 1977. Renowned for his high leaping and determination, Kerley then went on to round off his football career with 29 games in two seasons – 1981 and 1982 – at North Adelaide.

We will always treasure Stephen’s place in our club and the wider game, and we pass on our sincerest condolences to his family, friends and former teammates.

Every Heart Beats True