Vale John O'Connell - 8 March 1932 to 14 June 2026

The Geelong Football Club and Past Players is mourning the passing of former player and West Australian icon, John O'Connell, who sadly passed at the age of 94 last week. 

A brilliant ruckman and forward during his playing career, O'Connell's impact on football stretched far beyond what he did on the field, also involved as a coach, media commentator and administrator. 

O'Connell featured for Claremont in the West Australian National Football League from 1950 to 1954, achieving instant success with an interstate selection and becoming one of the most important players in the Tigers' line-up. 

John O'Connell in 1956. Photo courtesy of the Bob Gartland Collection.

After a strong stint with Claremont, O'Connell then moved to Victoria for Public Service and ultimately signed with Geelong ahead of the 1955 VFL season. 

In his VFL debut, O'Connell kicked four goals against South Melbourne and quickly established himself as one of the Cats' most pivotal figures, helping to lead the side to Finals in both 1955 and 1956. 

O'Connell went on to play 81 games for Geelong, finishing third in the club best and fairest in 1960 and captaining the side on five occasions, before finishing his VFL stint at the end of the 1960 season. 

Returning to Western Australia, O'Connell rejoined Claremont and played a further 54 games, before retiring at the end of the 1963 season with 156 WAFL games to go with his 81 at Geelong. 

John O'Connell representing Victoria in 1960. Photo courtesy of the Bob Gartland Collection.

Turning his attention to coaching, O'Connell led Maddington to a premiership in 1966 as captain-coach. 

He then made a name for himself off field, serving as the WAFL General Manager between 1987 and 1992, while also spending six years as President of Claremont. 

In the media, O'Connell worked on the radio for a number of years across 6PM, 6KY, 6NR and the ABC, providing analysis across WAFL games. 

Recognising his years of service, O'Connell was inducted into the West Australian Hall of Fame in 2012. 

There will be a celebration for John next Thursday at the Claremont Football Club. 

We extend our sincere condolences to the O'Connell family. Rest in peace John.