Vale John Schneebichler

SANFL is mourning the passing of Player Life Member John Schneebichler.

Inducted into SANFL’s prestigious 200 Club in 1987, John played a total of 259 League matches for South Adelaide (234) and Glenelg (25) between 1975 and 1988.

A member of the South Adelaide’s Hall of Fame, the high-flying forward was also a prolific goal kicker after tallying a total 377 majors across his 14-year career with the Panthers (351) and Tigers (26).

Affectionately known as ”Sneezer”, he was South’s Leading Goal kicker in 1983 with 65 while also playing in two SANFL Grand Finals in 1979 (South) and 1988 (Glenelg).

Representing South Australia on five occasions, John led from the front as captain of the Panthers from 1985 to 1987 after kicking four goals on debut in Round 5 of 1975.

”His passing is a very sad day and as a club we are grateful we had the opportunity to induct him into our Hall of Fame last year,” South Chief Executive Neill Sharpe told The Advertiser.

“He will be missed by a lot of people.’’

Upon retirement, Schneebichler devoted himself to administration and coaching in roles as Glenelg’s football manager and Brighton Football Club’s football director and coach.

“We have all been blown away by his courage, determination and positivity,’’ John’s brother-in-law and former South team-mate Brenton Honor said.

“He kept battling on against the odds and never complained, just kept thinking of others.

“We are in awe of him.’’

SANFL extends its deepest sympathy to the Schneebichler family as it honours John’s outstanding service to the game in South Australia.