Neale Daniher Tribute 9 News 25 May 2026

AFL great Neale Daniher has died today (25 May 2026) after a battle with motor neurone disease, aged 65. Daniher played 82 games for Essendon during a 12-season career, before going on to carve out a successful coaching career for Melbourne. He coached the Demons in 223, including leading them to the final in 2000. He leaves behind his wife Jan, four children, Lauren, Luke, Bec and Ben, their partners and children, and his brothers Terry, Anthony and Chris. The Daniher family released a statement on Monday afternoon, that read, in part: "We're heartbroken to share that our much-loved husband, Dad and Poppy, Neale Daniher, passed away at home, surrounded by his family," the statement said. "From day one Neale was a fighter. His determination was unmatched - choosing every day to find opportunity where others might see only challenge, and taking the fight to the Beast with everything he had. This tribute is from 9 News Melbourne **Please subscribe to my channel for further tributes and television memories.**