Football icon Steve Marsh passes away at 99, leaving the sporting community in mourning

The world of Australian football is in mourning as it bids farewell to one of its true legends, Steve Marsh, who passed away on March 5, 2024, at the age of 99.

A pioneer on the field and an inspiration to many, Marsh’s departure has sparked an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes from fans, fellow players, and the football community at large.

In a heartfelt statement, the South Fremantle Football Club officially announced the tragic news of Marsh’s passing.

“On the 5th of March Club Legend Steve Marsh sadly passed away aged 99. It is known to all that Marsh’s Football Career was one of the best, both at the Bulldogs, and in the State,” the statement read.

“Marsh was widely known as one of the greatest rovers, but not limiting him to just this, his speed and skills in general were outstanding. His confidence radiated making him a great leader that all followed when things got tough.

“Our Premier Family Club offers its deepest sympathy to Steve’s family, Terry and Len, and their respective families.”

Born September 12, 1924, Marsh began his football career with the Kalgoorlie Railways Football Club in 1943, contributing to their premiership victory during a leave from the Air Force. His remarkable journey continued when he joined the South Fremantle Football Club in 1945, where he played 226 games over 12 seasons, securing six premierships and earning accolades such as the 1952 Sandover Medal and the 1953 Simpson Medal. Marsh also represented Western Australia, captaining the side in 1954.

Marsh transitioned to the East Fremantle Football Club in 1957, serving as Captain/Coach and leading them to a premiership in 1957. With a total of 284 games, he retired as a player in 1960.

Marsh’s legacy extends beyond his playing days, with numerous honours recognising his contributions. In 1995, he became an inaugural member of the Fremantle Football Hall of Legends, achieving Legend Status in the West Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2005.

Inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in June 2006, Marsh’s influence is also acknowledged through the Steve Marsh Entrance at Subiaco Oval.

As news of his passing spread, the football community united in grief, expressing condolences and tributes.

VALE STEVE MARSH

Club Legend Steve Marsh has sadly passed away at the age of 99. Marsh’s Football Career was one of the best, both at the Bulldogs, and in the State.

Our Premier Family Club offers its deepest sympathy to Steve’s family and all who knew and loved him❤️🤍 pic.twitter.com/dk3UtpmJQa

— South Fremantle FC (@SFFCBulldogs) March 5, 2024

VALE Steve Marsh:
Sad to hear of the passing of an Australian football legend in every sense of the word, Steve Marsh. He was 99. He played 265 games in the WAFL for South Fremantle (236), East Fremantle (39) btwn 1945 & 1960 plus 19 for WA. R.I.P. @SFFCBulldogs @EFFC #wafooty pic.twitter.com/uTsRydNJhr

— Lost WAFL (@LostWafl) March 5, 2024

Saddened to hear of the passing of the great Steve Marsh … leaving us at age 99

A legend in the WA Football Hall of Fame … member of the AUS Football Hall of Fame … Sandover & Simpson medalist … 7-time WAFL premiership player … All-AUS

And a truly wonderful bloke #RIP

— Glenn Mitchell (@MitchellGlenn) March 5, 2024

#RIP Steve Marsh 🇦🇺🏈(99)#AussieRules footballer who played for 11 years at @SFFCBulldogs, playing over 200 times before heading to @EFFC in 1957. Considered one of he greatest #rovers of his era. Won the Premiership 6 times. Won the #SandoverMedal in 1952 & #SimpsonMedal in 53 pic.twitter.com/tEO14lDZmg

— Sporting Obituaries (@SportIconObit) March 5, 2024