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Kenny Williams' death leaves Sydney Swans heartbroken: 'Lost a legend'

sam goodwin
Sports Editor
·5-min read
Sydney Swans icon Kenny Williams, pictured here after his death at age 93.
Sydney Swans icon Kenny Williams has died at age 93. Image: Getty

Sydney Swans players past and present are paying tribute to iconic supporter Kenny Williams after his death at age 93.

Williams, who became the most recognisable Swans supporter in the land and frequently sang the team song with the players after games, died on Tuesday.

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"A man who brought so much cheer to all who knew him," the Swans wrote on social media.

“We are incredibly saddened by the passing of Kenny Williams, an amazing man who dedicated his life to the red and white.

“We send our condolences to Yvonne, Dianne, his family & friends during this time.”

Kenny Williams, pictured here celebrating with Lance Franklin after a Swans game in 2017.
Kenny Williams celebrates with Lance Franklin after a Swans game in 2017. (Photo by Matt King/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Swans legend Jude Bolton tweeted: "Saddened by the loss of a legend yesterday. 93 years filled to the brim loving his family, his sports and a good time.

"Always cherished Kenny Williams’ passionate post-game singing, his support for us as chief Sydney Swans hydrationist and advice over a home-cooked meal."

Born in South Melbourne, Williams was a life-long supporter of the Swans, who originated in Victoria before moving to Sydney 33 years ago.

He was at the MCG as a four-year-old when South Melbourne won the premiership in 1933.

He was invited by coach Ron Barassi to run water for the team at training in the early 1990s, and was on hand to celebrate some of their most famous victories - including at the grand final in 2005 when the club broke a 72-year premiership drought.

Kenny Williams, pictured here leading Swans players in their club song after a win in 2010.
Kenny Williams leads Swans players in their club song after a win in 2010. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

AFL world pays tribute to Kenny Williams

Williams and wife Yvonne regularly opened their doors to young players at the club.

“Everyone’s always been very kind to me. The club has been enormous. I’ve been in the thick of things all the time,” Williams said on his 90th birthday in 2019.

“I’ve always gone to training and I’ll never forget all the people I’ve met along the way.”

In a heartbreaking twist, the Swans have also been rocked by the death of long-time team manager John Payne.

“Quite simply, we will miss him terribly,” the club said after Payne's death on Sunday just a week before his 77th birthday.

The Swans paid tribute to Payne's “fierce loyalty, his absolute love of everyone involved with the Swans, and his steadfast friendship”.

Tributes have been flowing in on social media for both men.

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