"He was just a genius": Shock after former AFL star dies at just 42
<p>Former AFL player Andrew Krakouer has passed away at the age of 42, prompting an outpouring of grief from former teammates, coaches and the broader football community.</p>
<p>Krakouer, who played for Richmond and Collingwood, reportedly suffered a suspected heart attack at a family home in Perth on Sunday. His sudden passing has left many in shock, especially those who played alongside him during his impressive AFL career.</p>
<p>Having played 102 games for the Tigers, Krakouer made a remarkable return to elite football after a personal setback, going on to play 35 matches for the Magpies. He was a key player in Collingwood’s 2011 grand final against Geelong, where he kicked three goals.</p>
<p>Before his Collingwood stint, Krakouer dominated in the WAFL, winning the Sandover Medal in 2010 and delivering a best-on-ground performance in Swan Districts' premiership victory. His 42-disposal, four-goal effort in that grand final remains one of the greatest individual displays in WAFL history.</p>
<p>Bouncing back from time in prison, Krakouer was recruited by Collingwood ahead of the 2011 season. He made an instant impact, scoring 35 goals across 23 games and winning Mark of the Year for his spectacular high-flying grab. However, his career was hampered by an ACL injury in early 2012. Despite this setback, he made a strong return later that year, featuring in three finals and kicking four goals in the qualifying final against Port Adelaide.</p>
<p>Following a limited 2013 season, he was delisted but continued to be involved in football through media roles. He appeared on the <em>Marngrook Footy Show</em> and later co-hosted <em>Yokayi Footy</em>, also contributing as a commentator on both TV and radio.</p>
<p>Tributes have poured in from former teammates and coaches across the country, commemorating Krakouer’s talent and character.</p>
<p>“Rest in peace Andrew Krakouer. A beautiful man who was loved by all his teammates. Always greeted you with a hug and a smile. Love to Jimmy and Andrew’s daughters and all his family. Very sad day,” said Richmond great Matthew Richardson.</p>
<p>Fellow ex-Tiger and former club CEO Brendon Gale also expressed his sorrow. “So saddened by the tragic and unexpected passing of Andrew Krakouer. Krak was a special talent — but more than that, he was a deeply loved husband, father, son, teammate, and friend. My condolences are with the Krakouer family and all who loved him. Rest easy Krak.”</p>
<p>Collingwood’s former coach Nathan Buckley was visibly shaken upon hearing the news while live on radio. “That’s really sad news. That’s tragic, so young at 42,” Buckley said on SEN. “A really calm, quiet teammate, who was respectful and went about his business. I really enjoyed the years with him, that’s really sad for his family and his mates.”</p>
<p>Buckley also paid tribute to Krakouer’s footballing prowess, particularly his ability to produce spectacular moments on the field. “We’d get him in whenever we could,” Buckley recalled. “He was just a genius. He was just a player who could do the special things. The hanger he took in 2011 (to win Mark of the Year) was elite.</p>
<p>“He just loved the game, found a way to impact, and could do things that other players couldn’t do. He was exceptional.”</p>
<p>Krakouer came from a legendary footballing family. His father, Jim, and uncle, Phil, were WAFL and North Melbourne stars in the 1980s, while his cousin, Nathan, played for Port Adelaide and Gold Coast.</p>
<p>AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon also extended condolences. “We send our sincere condolences to Andrew’s family and many friends across football,” Dillon said. “To lose him at such an early age is a tragedy, and we hope there can be some peace for his family in this heart-breaking and difficult time.</p>
<p>“To all his past teammates at Richmond, Collingwood, the team at AFL media, and all Indigenous players and staff across the industry, our thoughts are with you all.”</p>
<p>Krakouer’s impact on the game and his ability to inspire others will not soon be forgotten.</p>
<p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>
