Paul Couch, who died on Saturday, was a practical joker who cared deeply about Geelong, the club's assistant coach James Rahilly said.
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After the Cats thrashed Essendon in sweltering heat in a pre-season match in Shepparton, Rahilly said he wanted to pass on his condolences to the Brownlow medal winner's wife and family.
Couch would sometimes drop in to visit the club and would be remembered both as a great footballer and person, he said.
"He used to come in now and again; he was a Brownlow medal and best and fairest winner," Rahilly said.
"He was just a great character, always loved to laugh and one of those guys who was a bit of a practical joker."
"But he really cared for the club, cared about what was going on, especially when we finally won that premiership, he was there, he was emotional as anyone."