The Essendon District Football League is in mourning after the saddening loss of Life Member, Leo Danaher.
Leo passed peacefully on Thursday the 4th of June after a long stint of illness.
He began his football in the early 1950’s playing under 17 football with Doutta Stars, where he was highly regarded for his leadership and skill.
He later graduated to Essendon and played a number of games in the reserves.
Unfortunately, a knee injury terminated any hope of furthering his career at Essendon and he returned to Doutta’s where he played in five A grade premierships during the late 50’s and early 60’s.
He was a playing-president with the club and later took on the role as the under 17's coach in 1960.
Leo was regarded as having no peer in coaching young men and was successful in coaching five premierships and runners up on a number of occasions until his retirement in 1972 for work reasons.
Leo renewed his EDFL interests in the early 1990’s when he served on the tribunal for nearly 20 years. He was always highly regarded by colleagues and opponents alike and will be sadly missed.
Essendon Doutta Stars shared the following tribute on it's website.
"Leo Danaher stood for respect, tradition, commitment, loyalty, ethical behaviour, leadership and community involvement." it said.
"He guided those of us from Douttas to follow in his footsteps and we will continue to tread the path.
"That path is Danaher’s Way.
"We are forever in Leo’s debt."
The EDFL sends its condolences to the Danaher family, Essendon Doutta Stars Football Club and anyone who was touched by Leo's life.
