The Mayne Tigers would like to acknowledge the passing of former Club Captain and Premiership player Steve Smith on the 25th September 2023.
Steve came to Queensland and Mayne from Tasmania as a very skilful left foot rover who instantly made an impact in the QAFL competition. He was appointed Captain of the 1972 senior team and was an integral part of a very successful era for the Tigers including the iconic 1973 Premiership team.
A quietly spoken man, Steve was a determined footballer and recognised leader of his era. Steve was again involved with the Tigers in numerous roles in the Mayne Juniors with his son Zac playing all the way through the Juniors and ultimately in the Seniors.
In a move to Noosa some 20 plus years ago, Steve and his wife Linda made a start in real estate by purchasing their own real estate business. Steve became very successful as a local agent and was well respected in the region for his honesty and integrity. This change in locale saw him following the Noosa Tigers when Zac began his time at the Sunshine Coast based club but his heart was always torn when the two Tigers outfits met each other in battle.
Linda reports he had an ongoing heart condition for some time. While he wasn’t well at the 50 year 1973 premiership team reunion in May this year, he was able to put on a brave face to make sure he looked okay. Linda said he came alive seeing all his old team mates then and really enjoyed the bond that they all shared over such a long time. Unfortunately, he had been enduring a really tough time since February.
Steve was laid to rest at a private funeral with a small gathering after his passing.
The Mayne Football Club wishes to express their condolences to Linda, Zac and their Family and Friends with his passing.
