I believe Gary Ablett was the best football I have seen. I was lucky enough to be at the 1989 Grand Final, and thinking about what Gary did that day still gives me goose bumps. That day he was Geelong, and off his own boot nearly beat an awesome Hawthorn team. I still remember what a Hawthorn supporter behind me said in the 3rd quarter: “If Geelong can get it to him often enough, they will win.”
Our thoughts should go to Alisha Horan’s family, who grieve at the loss of their daughter. As a person, Gary made some terrible choices.
But where do you draw the line? I consider Leigh Matthews hit on Neville Bruns one of the most shocking incidents in football, but he has been awarded the status of AFL Legend. You would hope Leigh regrets doing it, yet is looked over and forgotten.
As a footballer on any ground he played, Gary has done more than enough to enter the Hall of Fame. He was the reason people like me used to attend Geelong games when Richmond were not the opponent.
We all know of Gary’s strong belief in God, let Him decide Gary’s standing as a person.