Hall of Fame legend who coached the West Coast Eagles throws footy into mourning as he dies after an illness

Western Australian football is in mourning following the death of Hall of Fame legend John Todd.

Todd, 86, one of the state’s most decorated AFL coaches and players, died in his sleep on Tuesday after an illness.

Todd was a Sandover Medalist at the age of 17 before being crowned best and fairest for South Fremantle in the WAFL three times in his playing career. Todd also coached the West Coast Eagles in 1988 and 1989 at VFL level.

He was also a six-time WAFL premiership coach at East Fremantle, Swan Districts and South Fremantle.

Todd was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2003 and announced as a Legend of the West Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

Western Australian football is in mourning after Hall of Fame legend John Todd (pictured) died in his sleep on Tuesday

Todd was a Sandover medalist at the age of 17 before being crowned best and fairest three times at South Fremantle in the WAFL. Todd also coached the West Coast Eagles in 1988 and 1989.

South Fremantle FC led the tributes on social mediastating that it was a “sad day for the Bulldog family.”

“Vale John Todd,” read a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

“South Fremantle Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of club legend John Todd.

“Today is a sad day for the Bulldog family and WA Football in general.”

Footy fans also paid their respects online following the news.

‘Lost one of the greatest of all time this morning. A man who, like everyone else, shaped my football and outlook on life. Tough but fair. Tough but friendly. I always had his back and I owe him a lot,” AFL identity Scott Cummings posted in tribute.

“Wonderful man Toddy…may his memory be a blessing to his family. A legend of Aussie Rules football, both nationally and in Washington,” said another supporter.

“RIP Toddy,” a third posted.