A contemporary and great friend of Norm Smith, Ron Baggott came from a wonderful footballing family, with brother Jack a star at Richmond who went on to take his place in coaching ranks.
With his talent spotted at an early age, Baggott played in Melbourne’s Seconds premiership in 1934, and it was not long before his speed, accuracy and marking ability was noted. He was soon elevated to the senior side, making his debut in Round 12, 1935.
Baggott quickly became a vital ingredient in the ‘Checker’ Hughes coached line ups of the late 1930s and early 1940s. Described by ‘Checker’ as ‘one of those loosely put together players who was always hard to beat’, Baggott was ever reliable on the run, and an integral member of the 1939, 1940 and 1941 premiership sides. Best and Fairest in 1940, he also represented Victoria in 1939.
Continuing his good form in 1941, Baggott became one of many players to have his career interrupted by wartime service, enlisting with the RAAF in 1942. He returned to the side in 1945, and despite ongoing service commitments and health problems, was able to add ‘steadiness and experience to a young side’ throughout a nearly full season. This was Baggott’s last foray in red and blue, taking him to 133 games and 308 goals for his career, with his goals tally seeing him at tenth place in the Club’s records to this day. He was made a Life Member of the Club in 1946.
Going on to captain-coach VFA side Brunswick, Baggott again joined forces with Norm Smith as assistant coach from 1958 to 1961, and as Reserves coach from 1959 to 1961. He was also involved in radio, and worked with the railways.
Inducted into Melbourne’s Hall of Fame in 2003, Baggott was recognised as a ‘Hero’ of the Club in 2008. He will always be a treasured figure in the Club’s story, and we offer our most sincere condolences to his son Ian and daughter Joan, along with all his family and friends, upon his passing.
Ron Baggott’s funeral details.
Monday 6 May
2 pm at Jensen Funerals
Corner of Bruce St and Mary Sts, Preston
