North Adelaide honours long-term trainer Vaughan Taylor who died following SANFL season-opener

NORTH Adelaide Football Club has paid tribute to its long-term trainer, Vaughan Taylor, who died following the Roosters’ SANFL season-opener against Central District.

North Adelaide trainer Vaughan Taylor died following the Roosters’ season-opening loss to Central District at Elizabeth Oval on Saturday. Picture: Tom Huntley

NORTH Adelaide Football Club has paid tribute to its long-term trainer who died following the Roosters’ SANFL season-opener against Central District.

Vaughan Taylor collapsed near the entrance of the away team changerooms at Elizabeth Oval on Friday, about 10 minutes after North’s round-one loss to the Bulldogs.

Paramedics were unable to resuscitate the club volunteer.

The Roosters released a statement on their website on Saturday honouring Taylor, who had served the club for more than two decades.

“It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing yesterday (Friday) of one of our most wonderful volunteers, Vaughan Taylor,” the statement read.

“A much-loved member of our support staff, Vaughan had such a strong relationship with our players over past decades.

“Many players would only want to be strapped and prepared for the match by Vaughan. If he was busy, they would wait, such was his expertise, but especially his warm, positive personality.

“His Rooster family will always remember Vaughan for who he was and how he made us feel. We will miss him greatly. An absolute gentleman.”

Taylor travelled to North matches from his Bute farm in the state’s Mid North each weekend with his wife, Raelene. The staff member had undergone heart surgery about a month ago.