The Fremantle Football Club mourns the passing of the Club’s inaugural Property Steward Pat Watson.
Watson joined the Club in 1994 ahead of its first AFL season and went on to serve for 15 years in the role. In his 333 games of service, Watson missed just one away game, a trip to Brisbane in 2005, ruled out by an ear infection that prevented him from flying.
Before Fremantle existed, Watson's association with football stretched back to 1955 and the East Perth Football Club. He brought that experience to Fremantle Oval each week, where the job of Property Manager asked for far more than most supporters ever saw.
Watson managed all aspects of the Fremantle Football Club’s equipment and logistics for training and matches, handling countless items each week and ensuring everything ran smoothly, especially on away trips.
His commitment was unwavering, arriving early on game days and maintaining a flawless record of reliability and dedication that became central to the Club’s culture, all carried out quietly and without seeking recognition.
The property room at Fremantle Oval, when the Club was based there, was named in Watson's honour, a fitting and permanent acknowledgement of a contribution that shaped the daily life of the Club from its very first season, embodying what Fremantle Football stands for.
The Fremantle Football Club extends its deepest condolences to Pat’s family, friends and the many players and staff he supported across three decades. His contribution to the Club will not be forgotten.
The AFL players will wear black armbands in the Western Derby on Friday night in honour of his legacy.
