Russell Ebert Died in 2021, How He Lived Was Sad...

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They called him "God." To the loyal fans of the Port Adelaide Football Club, Russell Ebert was truly a heaven-sent messiah, especially as he dominated South Australian football during the 1970s. However, no matter how indestructible he might have seemed, his life wasn't always a bed of roses, and the end wasn't any easier.

Russell Frank Ebert, born on June 22, 1949, was the fourth of six children born to Doreen and Albert Ebert in the South Australian town of Berri. His father, Albert, was a footballer too who led the Alawoona Football Club to a championship in 1953. When Russell was eight years old, he watched Port Adelaide defeat Norwood in the 1957 SANFL Grand Final. It must’ve been quite a defining moment of his childhood!

His family moved to Loxton during his high school years. There, he played junior football with his brothers at the Loxton Football Club. As a teenager, he worked at the Bank of Loxton before transferring to the Savings Bank in Waikerie. While in Waikerie, he joined the Waikerie Football Club and played alongside Bruce Light, who later played for Port Adelaide with him.

Coward's memories of Russell's playing style highlight his greatness. He said there might not have been a better player when the ball was on the ground. Russell's balance, power, and skill, often shown by holding the ball in one hand, were exceptional! With sure hands and a special instinct, Russell's courage and creativity really stood out. His impact extended beyond Port Adelaide, enriching the game in South Australia and even beyond!