One of Essendon’s most famous names will be honoured with a special tribute match at Windy Hill with all proceeds going to help find a cure for Motor Neurone Disease.

Merv Neagle played 147 games for the Bombers and was a member of the 1984 Premiership team. 

He arrived at the club in 1977 from Dimboola and became renowned for his running style; aggression and long raking drop punts.

Neagle played on the wing in the 1984 Grand Final win against Hawthorn and kicked a goal from outside 50 to secure the win late in the match.

His Coach Kevin Sheedy remembers Neagle as a tough and courageous player.

“He was not only a brilliant footballer but was a real character and a highly respected teammate and friend to many people,” he said. 

“Merv was a tenacious, hard running player and his courage and toughness were typical of Essendon teams of that era.  He had great physicality for a wingman and was a terrific kick for goal on the run.”

In 1986 Neagle moved to Sydney where he played another 56 games.

He retired in 1990 and went on to coach a host of clubs around Australia including Marebin (Vic), Sale (Vic), Eastlake (ACT), Mount Barker (WA) and St Mary’s (NT).

Neagle was coaching Walla Walla (NSW) when was killed a truck crash in August 2012.

“He was a terrific hard running player on the wing for us, who gave us his all and had the tenacity to run all day without a spell,” Terry Daniher said at the time.

“He was a great mate who loved a beer and loved to be around his teammates. 

“He was just a good bloke.”

Neagle’s legacy lives on at Essendon with his four sons spending time in the James Hird Academy.

Bomber Legends vs. Victorian Legends

Wednesday 2^nd September, 3:30pm, Windy Hill

All proceeds go to Motor Neurone Disease.

You can secure the opportunity to play in the match.  There are also sponsorship opportunities available.  Click here for more details.