AFL Legend Adam Hunter Passes Away at 43

The Australian Football League (AFL) community is in mourning following the sudden death of former West Coast Eagles premiership player Adam Hunter. Hunter, aged 43, was found deceased at his home in Bunbury, Western Australia, on Wednesday morning, February 5th, 2025. The news has sent shockwaves through the AFL, leaving players, coaches, and fans devastated.

A Career Defined by Passion and Success

Hunter's AFL career spanned a decade, from 2000 to 2009, during which he played a remarkable 151 games for the West Coast Eagles. A versatile player known as a ‘swingman’ for his ability to play both forward and back, Hunter was a key member of the 2006 premiership-winning team. His performance in that Grand Final is legendary; he kicked the Eagles’ crucial final goal that sealed the team's one-point victory against Sydney, a moment forever etched in Eagles folklore. He also contributed a career-high 29 goals during that championship season, showcasing his offensive prowess.

A Champion's Heart

His former coach, John Worsfold, who led the Eagles to victory in 2006 and now serves as the club's head of football, spoke movingly about Hunter’s unwavering dedication and love for the game. Worsfold emphasized Hunter’s commitment to teamwork and his exceptional passion for football, stating that he loved the game more than any player Worsfold had ever seen. He was said to have attended a South Bunbury football training session the night before his death, illustrating his enduring connection with the sport.

A Legacy of Resilience and Community

Hunter's post-AFL life saw him return to his local club, South Bunbury, continuing his participation in the sport he loved. His love for the game even extended to coaching, and the news has been met with enormous sadness and outpouring of support and tributes throughout the entire AFL community.

His sudden passing has added to a week of profound loss for the AFL. Former Brisbane Lions player Troy Selwood and Essendon VFL coach Dale Tapping also passed away on Tuesday, adding another layer of sadness and reflection on the fragility of life.

Impact Beyond the Field

Hunter's life wasn't without its challenges. He faced legal battles after his retirement, including a fine for cocaine possession in 2014, yet his talent and commitment to football remained undeniable. The West Coast Eagles released a statement on social media expressing their deep sorrow, emphasizing that the Eagles organization is thinking of Hunter's family, teammates, and friends during this difficult time. A minute’s silence was held at West Coast training in his honor, accompanied by a touching tribute that displayed images of him celebrating his team's 2006 victory. The Eagles' tribute on X, formerly known as Twitter, highlighted the club’s devastation over the loss of their cherished player and member of their 2006 premiership-winning team.

Remembering a Beloved Figure

The passing of Adam Hunter is a profound loss for the AFL world and the broader sporting community. His legacy extends beyond statistics and accolades. It’s a testament to his dedication, love for the game, and the camaraderie he shared with his teammates and the South Bunbury Football Club. He will be remembered for his contributions on the field, his fierce competitiveness, and his genuine love for the game. His contribution to football, his ability to swing forward in crucial moments, and his pivotal goal in the 2006 Grand Final are lasting markers of his time with the West Coast Eagles. His untimely death is a sobering reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. The outpouring of grief and tributes from across the football world, from former opponents to teammates and coaches, speaks volumes about the impact Hunter had on those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of many, forever a part of the West Coast Eagles legacy.

The South West Football League club, South Bunbury, where Hunter was actively playing until his death, also released a statement on Facebook expressing their grief and extending condolences to Hunter's family and friends. They announced they would open their doors to members as a place for community support and reflection.

The news of Hunter’s death follows the sad news of the passing of Troy Selwood and Dale Tapping, creating a week of immense sadness within the AFL community. Selwood's twin brother Adam was a teammate of Hunter's, further highlighting the close-knit nature of the AFL world during this period of bereavement. The club will hold a memorial service in the near future to allow a meaningful farewell to Adam Hunter, and the AFL will undoubtedly work closely with his family and the South Bunbury Football Club to provide appropriate support during this difficult time.