Swans stars left gutted by death of beloved club legend, 93, who was team’s ‘hydration specialist’
Sydney Swans stars left gutted by death of beloved club legend, 93, who was a fixture in the dressing room for decades after becoming team’s ‘hydration specialist’
- Swans club legend Kenny Williams has died aged 93, leaving the club shattered
- Former jockey was a regular at training and in the sheds on game day at SCG
- Retired great Jude Bolton led the tributes on Twitter for the beloved figure
The Sydney Swans are in mourning following the death of club legend Kenny Williams.
A former jockey, Williams, 93, was affectionately known as the team’s ‘hydration specialist’ and was a revered figure at the Bloods.
The Swans tragic was a regular in the home dressing sheds at the Sydney Cricket Ground and was also in the stands at the MCG as a four-year-old when Sydney – known back then as South Melbourne – won their third VFL/AFL flag in 1933.
In 2005, he again made his way to Melbourne when the Swans ended a 72-year premiership drought by beating West Coast.
Williams first became a fixture when Ron Barassi was head coach – and then Rodney Eade encouraged the man with an infectious personality to lead the club song.
The Sydney Swans are in mourning following the death of club legend Kenny Williams (pictured, in 2011)
Williams first became a popular fixture with the playing group when AFL great Ron Barassi (pictured middle) was head coach
The Swans confirmed the news of Williams’ passing on Twitter.
‘A man who brought so much cheer to all who knew him,’ the club tweeted on Wednesday.
‘We are incredibly saddened by the passing of Kenny Williams, an amazing man who dedicated his life to the red & white.
‘We send our condolences to Yvonne, Dianne, his family & friends during this time.’
Swans legend Jude Bolton also tweeted his deepest condolences.
’93 years filled to the brim loving his family, his sports & a good time,’ Bolton said.
‘Always cherished Kenny Williams’ passionate post-game singing, his support for us as chief hydrationist and advice over a home-cooked meal.’
Williams’ meals – prepared by his loving wife Yvonne – were the stuff of legend at the Swans – with club greats such as Bolton, Adam Goodes, Barry Hall and Leo Barry regular guests at his home.
The Swans were dealt another tragic blow on Sunday, when longtime team manager and life member John Payne also died.
He was one week shy of his 77th birthday.
For all the latest Sports News Click Here
