MARSH, Ian

Ian Marsh was an exceptionally speedy and talented blond wingman from North Launceston in Tasmania. He had great skill, balance, and a touch of aggression.

He finished fifth in the 1980 Best and Fairest Player award in a tie with Terry Daniher.

He was an extraordinarily fit player but his career was cut short when he was struck down with serious heart problems which eventually led to open heart surgery in June 1981. Remarkably, he was back in training by July. A large crowd turned up at Essendon to support him when he played his first Reserves game, and he received an emotional cheer when he finally took the field, but he was unable to play at senior level again.

Marsh represented Tasmania in State of Origin matches in 1979 and 1980. He was inducted into the Tasmanian Football Hall of Fame.

He joined Aberfeldie in 1981 and played there from 1981 to 1984. He then played with South Bendigo in 1985 before again retiring due to health problems.

Ian Marsh died on the 28th May 2021.