Vale Max Ashworth

Swan Districts is saddened to learn of the loss of 1961 premiership player Max Ashworth, who passed away last week aged 86.

Ashworth’s legacy is woven into the club’s earliest era of success, remembered not only for his contribution on the field but for the grit and resilience he carried throughout his career.

Across 52 league games from 1960 to 1966, Ashworth became a dependable and versatile clubman, also holding the Swans reserves games record (94) for many years. His breakthrough into the league side in 1961 was interrupted by a late‑season suspension, ruling him out of both lead‑up finals. Yet captain‑coach Haydn Bunton Jr, who admired his “mad dog vigour and determination” recalled him for the Grand Final, trusting his toughness against East Perth’s rugged defence.

Ashworth repaid that faith. Playing forward and able to swing into defence when needed, he kicked two vital goals and produced an influential performance as Swan Districts shocked the football world, toppling the heavily favoured Royals in what became known as “The Greatest Upset in League History.”

Ashworth will always be honoured and remebered as one of Swan Districts’ 20 inaugural premiership players, respected for his determination, versatility and loyalty to the black and white.

Our sincere condolences go to the Ashworth family, his friends, former teammates and the wider Swan Districts community.