Former Richmond and Collingwood star Andrew Krakouer dies

“He made the most of his opportunities,” former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley said on SEN.

“He was troubled at times, but what a brilliant footballer. Really calm, quiet teammate who was respectful and went about his business.

“I really enjoyed the years with him, and that’s really sad for his family, first and foremost.

“He was just a genius. He was just a player who could do the special things … the hanger he took in 2011 on Marvel was elite. He loved the game, found a way to impact and could do things other players couldn’t do. He was exceptional.”

In 2022, Krakouer returned to Collingwood with former teammate Leon Davis to help develop culturally safe environment after the Do Better report.

“I want my community to be strong and to be proud and I want the game of Australian football – the game I love – to be welcoming of First Nations people at all times, on and off the field and in the stands,” Krakouer said at the time.

“I want us to keep striving to be better.”

Channel Seven reported that Krakouer died in Perth from a suspected heart attack on Sunday.

The AFL, Collingwood and Richmond are expected to release statements.