Goodbye to a Footy Legend: St Kilda Mourns the Loss of ‘Cowboy’ Neale

Sport AFL: St Kilda loses a premiership hero

St Kilda Football Club is mourning the loss of Kevin “Cowboy” Neale, a beloved figure in the Saints’ history. Neale, who passed away at the age of 78, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2018. The club expressed its deepest sympathies to his wife Georgina and the Neale family.

A Legacy of Strength and Resilience

Neale, renowned for his strength and versatility as a player, joined St Kilda in 1965 and played a crucial role in the club’s sole premiership victory in 1966. He scored five of the Saints’ 10 goals in a one-point win over Collingwood. Reflecting on that historic moment, Neale expressed his deep appreciation for the long-suffering St Kilda fans who had waited decades for success.

“The thing that really stuck with me – and I still remember it to this day – is the number of people, a lot of them were older … who were sitting there still in their seats just crying because they’d been following St Kilda for 60 or 70 years,” Neale said in an interview with the AFL Players Association in 2013. “It struck me then, how much does it mean to these people? To look at it and now; 140 years we’ve been going, and we’ve still only won one.”

A Well-Respected Figure

Neale’s contribution to St Kilda extended beyond his playing days. He won the club’s best and fairest award in 1973 and was later honored by being named in the club’s team of the century and hall of fame. After his VFL career, Neale went on to captain-coach Canberra club Ainslie to four premierships in the ACT and also led the ACT to a significant victory over a Victorian team in a precursor to State of Origin. He then coached Central District in the SANFL.

Returning to St Kilda in later years, Neale worked in the marketing department and served as president of the Past Players Association. His impact on the club and the broader football community was substantial, and his loss will be deeply felt.

Reflecting on the Disappointments

While Neale experienced the joy of a premiership in 1966, he also endured the heartbreak of two losing grand finals. St Kilda fell short against Essendon in 1965 and Hawthorn in 1971. Neale spoke candidly about the lasting disappointment of the 1971 defeat, where the team led by 20 points going into the final quarter only to be defeated by Hawthorn. He emphasized that such disappointments never truly fade away.

Navigating the Changes in the Game

Neale, like many former players, was known for his admiration of the modern game but also questioned some aspects of it. He expressed surprise at the prevalence of handballing in today’s game, remarking on the stark difference in statistics between his era and the present. However, Neale acknowledged the superior work-rate and fitness levels of today’s players and believed that past legends such as Darrel Baldock, Ian Stewart, Ted Whitten, and Bobby Skilton would have excelled in the modern game.

Editorial: Reflecting on Cowboy Neale’s Impact

The passing of Kevin “Cowboy” Neale marks the end of an era for St Kilda and the broader football community. Neale’s achievements as a player and coach, his unwavering loyalty to the Saints, and his connection with the fans make him a true legend of the game.

Neale’s experience with Alzheimer’s disease in his later years highlighted the challenges faced by many former athletes. It serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting retired players both during and after their careers. The AFL and its clubs should continue to prioritize the well-being of their past players, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support for any health conditions they may face.

As we mourn the loss of Neale, it is important to celebrate his contributions and the enduring impact he had on St Kilda and the wider football community. He exemplified the values of strength, resilience, and loyalty that make Australian rules football such a cherished part of our culture. Neale’s memory will live on in the hearts of the St Kilda faithful and serve as a reminder of the rich history of the sport.

Advice for St Kilda and the AFL

In the wake of Cowboy Neale’s passing, it is crucial for St Kilda Football Club and the AFL to honor his legacy and support his family during this difficult time. The club should consider organizing a memorial service or tribute to honor Neale’s contributions to the club and the game. This will provide closure for the fans and the broader St Kilda community.

Additionally, the AFL should continue to prioritize the well-being of former players by offering adequate support and resources for those who may be facing health challenges, both physical and mental. It is important to recognize the sacrifices made by these athletes and ensure they have access to the necessary care and assistance.

Neale’s passing should also serve as a reminder to all AFL clubs to maintain strong connections with their past players. By fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity, clubs can ensure that their former athletes feel valued and supported throughout their lives.

The legacy of Cowboy Neale will undoubtedly endure, and it is up to St Kilda, the AFL, and the wider football community to honor his memory and continue to build upon the foundations he helped establish.