THE Melbourne Football Club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former player and coaching staff member Ray Hutchins.
A quiet, humble and determined man, Hutchins’ involvement with the Melbourne Football Club spanned across 14 years.
He joined the club’s Under 19’s team in 1946, playing a major role in the 1947 Under 19’s Premiership win.
Hutchins would go on to play with the reserves from 1948, winning a Premiership in 1949 and being named the seconds Best & Fairest player in 1950.
He received a call-up to the senior VFL team in 1950, playing five matches in the number 24 guernsey until 1951.
Following his playing career, Hutchins turned to coaching, where he took charge of Melbourne’s Under 17’s. He then coached the Under 19’s from 1957-1960.
Ray had a further connection to the club through his father, Merv, who founded the Under 19’s program and was awarded Life Membership in 1961.
The club extends its deepest sympathies to Ray’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.
