Cats lose legendary defender

Former Geelong defender John Scarlett is being remembered as a real character by his mates at the club.

The 72-year-old Hall of Fame member passed away yesterday morning.

Geelong Past Players' Association president Ray Card said Scarlett was much loved.

"He had a really dry wit and was a character on the field," Card said.

"He used to sledge a bit, and he'd get the ball and have a couple of bounces with a 'yippee, yippee, look at me go' sort of thing."

Scarlett played 183 games for the Cats after making his debut in 1967.

'Gunner' played in the 1967 grand final loss to Richmond, holding his spot in the team following the preliminary final win over Carlton.

After the 1977 season, Scarlett joined South Melbourne, playing 29 games in two seasons.

He played with GFL club Newtown & Chilwell in the early 80s, helping the Eagles to premiership wins in 1982, 1985 and 1986.

He later coached at a junior level at St Joseph's.

Son Matthew played 284 games at Geelong.

Another son, Jack, made his senior debut for St Joseph's against Lara in Round 8.

Picture: John Scarlett featured in a video on the 1967 grand final - you can see the video here