The world of sports broadcasting mourns the loss of a legend. Dennis Cometti, the iconic AFL commentator, has passed away at 76, leaving behind a legacy that will forever echo in the halls of Australian sporting history. But who was this man, and why has his passing caused such an outpouring of emotion?
Cometti was more than just a commentator; he was a master wordsmith, a linguistic wizard who painted pictures with his voice. His career spanned an incredible 51 seasons, primarily with Seven and Nine networks, but also with the ABC. His distinctive deep voice and witty one-liners became his trademark, setting him apart from other commentators. And this is where it gets fascinating: his talent was so revered that when broadcast rights changed hands, Cometti remained a constant, a testament to his unparalleled skill.
But here's where it gets controversial—was he just a commentator with a knack for words? No, according to his colleagues. Eddie McGuire, a fellow broadcaster and former Collingwood president, described Cometti as 'a complete joy to work with', praising his ability to capture the essence of the game with precision and humor. McGuire's words hint at a man who brought life to the sport, a man whose commentary became an integral part of the AFL experience.
Cometti's impact was not limited to AFL. He also lent his voice to cricket, working alongside the legendary Alan McGilvray on the ABC for 13 years. His talent was evident from a young age, becoming the youngest Test commentator in the public broadcaster's history at just 23. But it was in AFL where he truly left his mark.
His famous one-liners, now known as 'Cometti-isms', have become folklore in the AFL community. From 'bobbing like a cork in the ocean' to 'the Cat is still on the back', his phrases have become synonymous with iconic sporting moments. And this is the part most people miss—Cometti's words not only described the action but also captured the emotion, the suspense, and the sheer joy of the game.
His final game as a TV commentator in 2016, the Western Bulldogs' drought-breaking premiership, is a testament to his enduring impact. His description of Tom Boyd's long bomb, 'How will it bounce? The stadium holds its breath. It's a goal. And the western suburbs erupt', encapsulates the magic he brought to the sport.
So, as we bid farewell to this broadcasting great, let's remember Dennis Cometti not just for his words, but for the passion and joy he brought to millions of sports fans. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of commentators. Do you think Cometti's impact on sports broadcasting is overstated, or does he truly deserve the legendary status he's been given?
