A Community Mourns the Loss of a West Coast Eagle
On a somber Thursday, hundreds of people gathered at the Hands Oval in South Bunbury to pay their final respects to Adam Hunter, a beloved former defender for the West Coast Eagles. Hunter, who passed away at the young age of 43 earlier in the month, was remembered not just as a brilliant footballer but as a kind and loving person. Members of the football community, including former teammates and coaches, joined his family and friends in a heartfelt tribute. The 2006 AFL premiership winner was lauded by Eagles greats John Worsfold and Trevor Nisbett for his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to the sport. Worsfold, who coached Hunter during his prime, praised him as a "brilliant footballer" who always put the team first.
A Life of Passion and Perseverance
Adam Hunter’s passion for football was evident from a young age. He began his journey with South Bunbury, making his senior debut at just 16. His talent quickly caught the eye of scouts, leading to a stint with Swan Districts in 1999. Hunter’s skills and dedication earned him a spot in the West Coast Eagles, where he was drafted as the 29th pick in the National Draft. Over his 151-game career with the Eagles, he kicked 86 goals and played multiple positions, including defender and half-forward. His versatility and work ethic made him an invaluable asset to the team. Hunter’s career highlight came in 2006 when he played a crucial role in the Eagles’ premiership win, notably booting 11 goals during the finals series. His performance as a swingman, deployed by coach John Worsfold, was instrumental in the team’s success.
A Devastating Farewell
Hunter’s premature retirement in 2009 due to a shoulder injury cut short a promising career. Despite the club’s best efforts to convince him to retire, Hunter was reluctant to hang up his boots. Worsfold recalled, "He didn’t want to retire through injury, even after being told that he was putting the rest of his life at risk with a bad shoulder if he played any more footy. He was prepared to cop that. He would’ve lived the rest of his life with one arm if he could’ve squeezed a few more years out at West Coast, but unfortunately we couldn’t allow that." Hunter’s dedication and commitment to the sport were inspiring, and his legacy continued to impact the club long after he left the field.
A Love Story Cut Short
Hunter’s partner, Latisha Yacoub, delivered an emotional tribute, describing him as her "lover, best friend, soulmate, and the absolute love of my life." She shared how they had planned to get married and buy a house with a "white picket fence." Yacoub spoke of their journey, filled with both joys and challenges, but always united by their love. "Some people wait a lifetime to experience the love we share," she said. Hunter’s final words to her were particularly poignant: "One day the right person will walk into your life and make you realize why every ‘no’ was preparing you for the perfect ‘yes’." His passing left a void in her life, but his love and memories would forever remain.
A Community Comes Together
The funeral service at the South Bunbury Football Club was a testament to the impact Adam Hunter had on the community. The Hands Oval was adorned with a West Coast Eagles flag and a South Bunbury flag draped over his coffin, symbolizing his deep connections to both clubs. His fishing rod, a symbol of his hobbies and passions outside of football, was placed on top. Former teammates, including Ben Cousins, Andrew Embley, Michael Braun, Ash Hansen, Quinten Lynch, Beau Waters, Drew Banfield, Nic Naitanui, Oscar Allen, and Liam Duggan, were present to pay their respects. The presence of current West Coast stars Liam Duggan and Oscar Allen further emphasized the lasting impact Hunter had on the football community.
A Legacy of Inspiration
John Worsfold’s emotional tribute highlighted Adam Hunter’s character and contributions to the West Coast Eagles. "If I do shed a tear, it’s a tear of pride for having got the opportunity to work so closely with a great young man," Worsfold said. Hunter’s focus on the team and his relentless drive to train and play were qualities that made him stand out. "He didn’t seek accolades. He wanted to do what was right for our team," Worsfold added. His legacy as a player and a person continues to inspire current and future generations of footballers. Everyone who knew Adam Hunter loved and respected him, and his memory will live on through the many lives he touched.
