Winchelsea footballer and Deakin University student Ed Smith dies

A crowd favourite once known as the “Wiz-Ed” among fans at Winchelsea Football Club has died tragically just days before Christmas back in his home town.

A “crowd favourite” at Winchelsea Blues Football Club has died.

In a Facebook post on Sunday, the club said “with deep sadness” it extended its condolences to Ed Smith’s family following his “tragic passing”, aged 21, on Friday night back home in Yackandandah.

Like many Winchelsea players Smith was a Deakin University student and quickly became a fan favourite at Eastern Reserve.

“Ed was a much loved figure of the club, a teammate to many and a great friend of everyone that he came across during his time in the navy blue,” the club said.

Winchelsea footballer Ed Smith has died. Picture: Winchelsea Blues.

“We send our deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this extremely difficult time.

“Rest peacefully Ed.”

Club president Daniel Greskie said Smith had recovered from a broken hand very early in the season to finish the year strongly.

He said Smith was a very skilful player who liked to go for the seemingly impossible goal.

“He was one of the nicest, most caring well-mannered people who have come into our club,” Greskie said.

“As soon as he’s walked through the door, he’s had a massive impact on our club.

“He’s played 21 games of footy, I don’t think too many people make that much impact in 21 games.”

Smith died just days before Christmas. Picture: Winchelsea Blues.

Greskie said he would also remember Smith for his winning smile and personality, who made strong connections with his teammates and the club’s netballers.

The club had been thrilled to have re-signed Smith for the 2023 season after a “stellar” 22 where he cemented his place in the side on the wing, landing in the best players in his final three games with the club.

He played 10 senior games for the Blues this season, including a four-goal performance against Geelong West in Round 17.

Smith was a very popular teammate. Picture: Winchelsea Blues.

In a match report from the league, Smith put in his best performance in the navy blue, “seemingly having the ball on a string”.

In his final game of Round 18 against Anakie, Smith had 36 disposals and two goals to be in the best players.

Greskie had only just spoken to Smith in recent weeks about taking on the club’s number four jumper for 2024.

“I thought he’d be perfect in number four,” he said.

Lifeline: 13 11 14.

Originally published as Winchelsea footballer and Deakin University student Ed Smith dies