The Sydney Swans would like to express their sadness at the passing of past President, Club Patron and life member Michael Willesee, who today passed away at the age of 76 following a battle with throat cancer.

On behalf of Chairman Andrew Pridham AO, the Board, executive, staff, coaches, past and present players, and indeed everyone at, or associated with our club, we extend our deepest sympathies to the Willesee family.

Michael Willesee was inducted onto the Sydney Swans Heritage List, along with fellow True Believers; John Gerahty, Craig Kimberley, Basil Sellers and Peter Weinert in 2015.

At a time when the future of the Sydney Swans looked in doubt throughout the late 1980s and early 90s, the group stepped in to ensure the survival of the club they loved.

The five men provided the Swans with enormous financial support, lobbied other clubs to allow the AFL to assist, and made huge personal sacrifices along the way.

Michael Willesee was a household name in Australian journalism for over 40 years fronting Four Corners on the ABC before moving to Channel Nine where he started A Current Affair in 1971.

Full tribute to come.