Vale John Bedford

The entire South Melbourne FC family wishes to extend its deepest condolences to the Bedford family on the passing of club legend, Hall of Fame and Team of the Century member John Bedford. 

Mr. Bedford was an outstanding defender throughout his 14 seasons with South Melbourne FC. He was a member of South's first ever championship team in 1960 that went undefeated in the metropolitan League 1 North division which secured promotion to the State League Division One.

During his playing career with the Club, Mr. Bedford played in the 1962, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1972 and 1974 State League championship sides. Bedford also represented Victoria on 28 occasions. He was regarded as one of the greatest defenders ever to play for South, with his blistering pace and powerful left foot also seeing him push into the midfield on many occasions. He will also be regarded as one of the most clever players ever to pull a South shirt on, as well as a natural leader on the park who would never be defeated until the final whistle.

from smfc.com