Craig Stewart dead at 66: AFL legend dies as Collingwood and Richmond lead tributes

Popular former footy star Craig Stewart has passed away at the age of 66, with Collingwood and Richmond leading tributes for the big man.

Stewart played 115 games for the Magpies from 1978 until 1983 before being transferred to the Tigers, where he played 35 games.

He is also the father of Essendon star James Stewart, who was drafted by the GWS Giants in 2012.

‘The board, management, staff, coaches and players of the Collingwood Football Club wish to place on record our appreciation for Craig’s wonderful contribution to our footy club,’ the Magpies said.

‘Our thoughts are with his family, and all his friends from Collingwood, Richmond, Preston and beyond.’

AFL legend Craig Stewart, who played for Collingwood and Richmond, has died aged 66

Stewart’s son James was drafted by the GWS Giants in 2012 and now plays for Essendon

The Tigers tweeted: ‘Richmond is mourning the passing of former tall defender, Craig Stewart. Stewart played 35 senior and 17 reserve games for the club between 1984-86, after transferring from Collingwood.’

Stewart joined Collingwood in 1978 with a strong reputation having won Preston’s best and fairest prize in the VFA the year prior.

He was mainly used in attack, but his versatility meant he could also play in the ruck and down back, endearing himself to fans. 

Stewart was a mainstay in Tom Hafey’s formidable team and was the winner of the best first-year player award before being part of the 1980 and 1981 grand final sides.

The former Magpie won his club’s best and fairest award twice before heading to Punt Road in 1984, in which he largely played as a defender. 

His relationship with the Pies became strained later in life when he criticised the club for snubbing his son James as a possible father-son recruit.