Pics from the past | Tom Hafey’s legacy, from Shepparton success to Richmond glory

By Geoff Allemand

Jul 5, 2024

A compositor at the Waterwheel Press at The News. Photo by Graeme Elliott

Tom Hafey, affectionately known as “T-shirt Tommy”, is a name that resonates deeply within the annals of Australian football history. His journey, particularly his time in Shepparton, is a testament to his passion, dedication and impact on the sport.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

Hafey’s life in Shepparton, especially his tenure as the coach of the Shepparton Football Club, is marked by significant achievements and unforgettable moments that have left an indelible mark on the community and the sport.

Tom Hafey was born on August 5, 1931, in Richmond, Victoria. His early life was imbued with a deep love for football, a passion that would guide his future endeavours. Before making his mark in Shepparton, Hafey had an illustrious playing career with Richmond in the Victorian Football League (VFL), where he played 67 games from 1953 to 1958.

“As the story goes, then Shepparton president Jack Edwards dragged Hafey out of Richmond in 1960 and turned him intwso a coach. The Maroons appointed Hafey as their second choice on £950 a season — more than seven times what he had earned at Richmond. If he were still at the Maroons for a third year, his salary would rise to £1000. Hafey made an impression at Deakin Reserve with his emphasis on fitness, but he missed the opening four games of his first season in 1960 due to a leg injury. After five games, he was called before the committee to explain why the Maroons had lost four. Hafey asked the committee members to keep faith with him.” (Article: Pssst - What if Shepparton had sacked Hafey?)

Hafey led the Bears to premierships in 1963, 64 and 65 and triggered the most successful period in the club’s history. Then, they went on to win five more flags in the next eight seasons. At one stage, he worked at the Waterwheel Press, which was a printing arm of The News.

In the years following his departure from Shepparton, Hafey’s coaching career reached new heights. In 1966, he went on to coach Richmond, leading them to four VFL premierships (1967, 1969, 1973 and 1974), and later coached Collingwood, Geelong and Sydney. Despite his successes elsewhere, Hafey never forgot his roots in Shepparton and often visited over the years.

Tom Hafey passed away on May 12, 2014, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate within the football community and in Shepparton.

Geoff Allemand is an amateur photographer and Lost Shepparton Facebook page admin. Please share your Pics from the Past at pastpics@mmg.com.au