Jim Stynes: 1966 – 2012

Former Melbourne footballer and club president Jim Stynes has died aged 45, after a two and half year battle with cancer.

Stynes died early on Tuesday morning, surrounded by family in his Melbourne home. His wife Sam said in a message on Facebook that his death was “pain free, dignified and peaceful.”

“In his final days Jim was immersed with insurmountable love and tenderness surrounded by his family and some close friends in the comfort of his own home. On behalf of Jim my heartfelt thanks to all those who have so generously cared for, guided and supported Jim throughout his challenging cancer battle.

“It is an incredibly sad time, however Jim in his passing, has made us see that in our grief that we can smile in our hearts for a beautiful man who will forever hold a special place in the hearts of many. Jim’s lesson is that life was to be challenged and treasured.”

Stynes moved to Australia from Dublin aged 18, and played his first game for the Demons in 1987. During his 12 year career he won the Brownlow medal (1991), the Leigh Matthews trophy (1991) and four best and fairests with Melbourne, equalling the club record. Stynes played 264 games for Melbourne, breaking the AFL record of 244 consecutive games, and twice gained all-Australian selection. He became president of the Melbourne Demons in 2008 and helped his ailing club turn around their fortunes.

Stynes was twice named Victorian of the Year (2001 and 2003) and, in 2007, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his work with youth and contribution to Australian football.

In a statement, Melbourne FC president Don McLardy said: ‘‘There are few places in Australia that have not heard or been touched by the legend of Jim Stynes – the affable Irishman who left his homeland to chase a dream, and succeeded beyond anyone’s expectations.

‘‘In the next few weeks, you will hear from many who will tell you about his magnificent playing record, and why Kevin Sheedy says he is the greatest story in the history of the AFL.

‘‘You will also hear from many  whose lives have been changed by Jim, mainly through contact with his incredible youth organisation Reach. Not just great achievers such as Jules Lund, Trisha Silvers and the like, but hundreds of young kids who openly say Jim Stynes ‘changed my life’. Can there be a greater accolade than that?’’

The Stynes family has accepted the Victorian Government’s offer of a State funeral.

The offer was made to Sam Stynes, Jim’s wife, by Premier Ted Baillieu, who described the former Melbourne champion as “an exceptional Victorian”.

He is survived by his wife, Samantha, children Matisse and Tiernan, parents Tess and Brian, and siblings Brian jnr, David, Terri-Ann, Dearbhla and Sharon.