Australian football great Paul Dear dead at age 55

Tributes are pouring in after it was announced on Saturday morning a Hawthorn Hawks club legend has died at the age of 55.

Hawthorn footballer Paul Dear IN 1996.

Hawthorn great Paul Dear has died at age 55.

The Norm Smith medallist from the 1991 grand final had fought a two-year battle against pancreatic cancer.

Tributes began pouring in on Saturday morning after the news was made public.

Hawthorn confirmed the news in an official statement on Saturday morning.

“Hawthorn Football Club is deeply saddened to learn the passing of premiership player Paul Dear,” the statement read.

“The club extends its sincere condolences to Paul’s family and friends.

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“He was a loving husband and proud father to four children he adored immensely. Paul played 123 games for Hawthorn during a nine-year career spanning from 1987 to 1996.

Ex Hawthorn player Paul Dear with wife Cherie. Picture: Nicki Connolly.

Paul Dear during the 1996 season.

“Arguably his greatest moment in the brown and gold came on Grand Final day 1991, helping drag the Hawks to premiership glory. Facing a deficit at the first break, Paul inspired a stunning turnaround, gathering 26 disposals and booting two goals in a Norm Smith Medal-winning performance.

“In retirement, Paul’s ability to inspire extended beyond the football field, as he bravely fought pancreatic cancer following his diagnosis in 2020. Through resilience and dedication, Paul and his family took control of their journey igniting a campaign called Dare to Hope, which raises awareness and funds in support others impacted by pancreatic cancer.

Paul Dear high could catch anything. North Melbourne v Hawthorn.

“Hawthorn’s Dare to Hope Match will take place next Sunday 17 July at the MCG, generating vital money for the dedicated Dare to Hope: Paul Dear Pancreatic Cancer Fund.

“Paul was an important part of the Hawthorn family, and our thoughts are with Cherie, Harry, Nate, Maya and Calsher during this difficult time.”

Tributes began pouring in on Saturday morning.

AFL media commentator Stephen Quartermain wrote on Twitter: “:Vale Paul Dear. So very sad. What enormous courage Paul showed”.

Popular broadcaster Andy Maher, who recently interviewed Dear on Channel 7’s The Front Bar, wrote: “Incredibly sad to hear about the passing of Paul Dear.

“Took on his fight against pancreatic cancer with courage, positivity and a smile as broad as his shoulders.”

Aussie basketball legend Brendan Joyce posted: “Very sad to hear the passing of Paul Dear. A good bloke that loved his family.

“Condolences & prayers for his beautiful family.”