Legendary Australian Broadcaster Dennis Cometti Passes Away at 76
The Australian sports community is mourning the loss of Dennis Cometti, a revered broadcaster who died at the age of 76. With a career spanning nearly five decades, Cometti became a national icon through his distinctive commentary style, particularly in Australian Football League (AFL) and Olympic broadcasts for Channel 7.
Iconic Career and Memorable Moments
Cometti's journey began as a West Australian Football League (WAFL) player and coach for West Perth, but he transitioned to media in 1984, focusing on broadcasting as the national competition emerged. Over the years, he called nearly 500 AFL games, often alongside his close friend and fellow legend Bruce McAvaney. His retirement from television came with Channel 7's broadcast of the 2016 AFL grand final, a fitting end to a storied career.
Beloved for his witty one-liners, perhaps none more famous than 'centimetre perfect', Cometti's commentary captured the hearts of fans nationwide. One of his most memorable calls was during the Western Bulldogs' drought-breaking premiership in 2016, where he exclaimed, 'and the western suburbs erupt' after Tom Boyd's sealing goal in the final quarter. This moment held special significance as Cometti had once been on the Footscray list and maintained a soft spot for the club.
Tributes and Legacy
Bruce McAvaney, in a tribute when Cometti was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2020, praised his friend's unique impact. 'The legacy that he'll leave above all the other things is that one-liner that summed everything up so brilliantly and made us all smile,' McAvaney said. He added, 'There are a lot of very good commentators, many that have come before Dennis and there'll be a lot that come after him, but I really believe he's the benchmark. Of all the people that have called the game, Dennis has created an aura about himself and an excellence that does stand alone, and for that he should be very proud.'
Beyond football, Cometti's call of Australian swimmer Kieren Perkins' gold medal at the 1996 Olympics remains a highlight of his career. In a 2022 appearance on the BackChat podcast, he humorously remarked, 'I wasn't a swimming aficionado, the only reason they selected me was I had a pool in the backyard I think.' After leaving television, he continued to call AFL matches on Perth radio, staying connected to the sport he loved.
Future Celebrations and Impact
A documentary titled 'Centimetre Perfect' is set to air on Seven and 7plus Sport later this year, celebrating his remarkable career. This tribute will likely highlight his contributions to sports broadcasting and his enduring influence on Australian culture.
Dennis Cometti's passing marks the end of an era in Australian sports commentary. His unique style, memorable calls, and dedication to the craft have left an indelible mark, ensuring he will be remembered as a true legend in the broadcasting world.
