Riverland legend Kerley to be farewelled Monday, July 25

Riverland sporting legend Neil Kerley will be honoured with a state funeral at Adelaide Oval on Monday, July 25.

Hosted by the state government, the funeral will commemorate Kerley’s life, career and contribution to South Australia as an Aussie rules player, coach, selector and commentator.

Born in Barmera Hospital and raised in Loveday, Kerley left an indelible mark on the game, which began with a successful association with Barmera.

“It could not be more fitting that the life of a true giant of the game and our state is celebrated with a state funeral,” said Acting Premier, Susan Close.

“I extend my sympathy to Neil’s family and friends, to whom he was far more than a cherished legend of the game and thank them for the opportunity to pay respect to his legacy in this way.”

Debuting in 1957 for West Adelaide, Kerley left his indelible mark at five SANFL clubs over five decades, winning two premierships (1961 West Adelaide; 1964 South Adelaide) as captain-coach, and two as coach (1973 Glenelg; 1983 West Adelaide).

Across a 276-game playing career and a three-decade long coaching career, Kerley’s extensive list of achievements included 32 games for South Australia (six as captain), coaching South Australia and State of Origin teams, winning five best-and-fairest awards, becoming All-Australian vice-captain (1961). He was inducted into the Australian, South Australian and West Adelaide halls of fame, and is an official Riverland Legend of Sport.

Kerley was also instrumental in developing the Adelaide Football Club, serving as the Crows’ first football manager in 1990 and 1991, as well as being a selector for the All Australian team.

In 2007, Kerley was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to Australian football in South Australia as a player and coach, and to the community as a supporter of several charitable organisations.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the state funeral, which will also be livestreamed.

Attendees can register online (dpc.sa.gov.au/NeilKerley)