Collingwood’s heartbreaking double tragedy has really shocked the AFL world.
Collingwood greats Billy Picken and Con Britt died tragically in the last 24 hours, leaving the AFL world in shock.
Picken, a member of Collingwood’s century squad, died on Saturday at the age of 66.
After making his debut for the Magpies in 1974, he went on to win the EW Copeland Trophy twice and was named All-Australian in 1983.
The defender’s career spanned 11 seasons and he was known for his high-marking.
Picken’s death was doubly heartbreaking for the Magpies, who were also mourning the death of another ex-player, Britt.
Britt was recruited from the Ballarat Football League before making his debut in 1966, and he played 110 games for the Magpies before being forced to retire at the age of 26 due to a knee injury in 1973.
He was 73.
“Billy was a spectacular player, a dashing defender who could take a big grab and a player who performed extraordinarily in finals matches,” Collingwood president Jeff Browne said in a statement released on Saturday.
“Billy quickly became a fan favorite after making his debut, with many Collingwood supporters wearing the number 25 on the back of their Black and White jumpers and duffle coats.”
“He will be remembered as one of the best Collingwood Football Club players of all time and one of the greatest centre half backs of his generation.”
“Con Britt was a talented player who spent the majority of his career on the half-forward line and along the wing.” He was quick and forceful in his attack on the football, which impressed Collingwood fans.”
In honor of both players, the Magpies will wear black armbands against Essendon at the MCG on Sunday.
The AFL world is in mourning following a double tragedy.
Both players have received numerous tributes on social media.
“Sad news with the passing of two Collingwood greats Bill Picken and Con Britt,” former Collingwood player and coach Tony Shaw tweeted. Sincere condolences to both families.”
“What a sad day for CollingwoodFC with the passing of Billy Picken,” sports presenter Stephen Quartermain wrote. “A shooter.”
“So sorry to learn of Bill Picken’s untimely passing,” Carlton historian Tony De Bolfo tweeted. A ferocious competitor (his battles with Mark Maclure were legendary) and a true character in an era when the game was rife with them. When they created Billy, they broke the mold. Vale.”
Comedian and Collingwood aficionado “Vale Billy Picken,” wrote Peter Helliar. Magpie was possibly my first favorite.”
“So saddened with the news that my childhood hero Billy Picken has passed away, aged 66,” Glenn McFarlane of the Herald Sun said. As a kid, I had No. 25 on my duffel coat before switching to Peter Daicos’ No. 35 when Billy left. One of the game’s most memorable characters. Excellent finals performer. What a living legend. Billy, thank you.”
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