The AFL world is in mourning following the passing of legendary Geelong person Cyril 'Bill' McMaster (OAM), who passed away at the age of 94.
McMaster was a Geelong player (1951-1954) and coach (1971-1972), winning two premierships (1951 and 1952) during his playing days and having an everlasting effect on both the club and the league.
A dominant ruckman, the former No.7 played 61 games, kicking 75 goals during his four-year stint at Kardinia Park.
Following a period in the country leagues with Lake Bolac (1955-1956) and Mortlake (1957-1963), McMaster would return to the Cats as a coach for two years, winning 12 games.
Following his coaching days, the man known to many as 'Bill', entered the realm of recruiting in 1973 on a full-time basis, the first ever in the VFL.
McMaster continued in the role for over two decades before retiring in 1994.
The Geelong Football Club will remember a pioneer of our game, Cyril โBillโ McMaster OAM who sadly passed recently aged 94.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to Billโs family and friends.
Rest peacefully, Bill.
— Geelong Cats (@GeelongCats) January 8, 2025
He was a pioneer for the League in the first full-time recruitment role and oversaw the recruitment of Gary Ablett Snr, Greg Williams, Garry Hocking, Paul Couch and many other champions of the game.
McMaster's unique contribution to our game saw him awarded Geelong life membership, Jack Titus Service Award and R.J Hickey Awards. He was also awarded the Australian Sports Medal in 2000.
In January 2024, McMaster received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for service to Australian rules football in the Barwon South West Region.
McMaster was the last living player from the 1952 Geelong premiership team.
