Tribute to Russell Taylor

Taylor was involved with AFL for over 40 years as an umpire, coach and administrator, and since joining AFL Canberra at the start of 2006, has been a valuable member of staff in his seven years with the AFL.

“Rusty has been a larger than life character for Canberra footy and will be sorely missed,” said Tom Harley, General Manager AFL NSW/ACT.

“He was a much-loved colleague and friend, and an integral part of AFL landscape in the ACT.”

Taylor umpired 237 first-grade games in an umpiring career that began in 1969 and continued through to 1993.

He umpired five first grade Grand Finals in 1981, 1984, 1985, 1987 and 1991 and four ACT representative matches.

He became a Life Member of the AFL Canberra Umpires Association in 1980 and won the Golden Whistle for Umpire of the Year in 1985.

In 2012 he was awarded life membership of AFL Canberra in recognition of his 35 year contribution to the game in umpiring.

“Rusty was a very well liked and respected person in the football community and will be missed immensely,” said Jack Masters, NEAFL Eastern Conference Manager.

“His energy, passion, loyalty and humour were just some of the traits we all loved about Rusty.

“It’s so sad to lose such a great friend and colleague and our thoughts go out to his wife Vivian and his children John and Carly.”