Sean King’s tragic death profiled.
Sean King, former West Coast Eagles and West Perth star, has tragically passed away at the age of 60, just three days after receiving life membership from West Perth.
King’s football career highlighted.
Known for his pace and grit on the field, King was a key figure during West Perth’s late ’80s era, playing 60 games and booting 48 goals.
When West Coast entered the VFL in 1987, King was called up to the inaugural squad, making history with his one and only match that year.
In the final round of the 1987 season, King exploded onto the field against St Kilda, racking up 21 touches and slamming home two goals.
King left West Perth in 1989, playing a final 10 matches for East Perth in 1991 before retiring from elite competition.
King first joined West Perth in 1986 and quickly built a reputation as a quick-thinking, high-energy player on the wing.
His climb through the WAFL ranks wasn’t flashy—but it was tough, gritty, and earned the respect of everyone who played beside him.
By the late ’80s, King was among the state’s most reliable players, a fact that led to his inclusion in the Eagles’ first-ever squad.
Many have wondered why King only played one game for West Coast. The simple answer? The competition was fierce—and brutal.
“Unlucky” became the most-used word in tributes from fans, who remembered his massive debut and lamented what could have been.
Tributes for King unveiled.
“He was very unlucky not to get more games,” one fan recalled. “He played very well. RIP legend.”
Former teammates praised him as a “great teacher of the game to so many young fellas” after his passing.
“Sad news, gone way too early,” one ex-teammate said. “Champion bloke and premiership teammate. RIP legend.”
King wasn’t done with footy after retiring—he stayed involved with West Perth as a League Runner from 2002 to 2018.
He was part of the club’s premiership staff for both their 2003 and 2013 wins—proof his impact ran deeper than goals and games.
“Sean’s involvement with West Perth spans over three decades,” the club noted. “His impact on our culture and spirit was indelible.”
The club sent “deepest sympathies” to his wife Anita, and children Jordan, Hannah, and Tom.
King’s final moments clarified.
In a bittersweet moment, King was honoured by West Perth with a Life Membership on Sunday—just 72 hours before his passing.
That he was alive to accept his Life Membership makes the moment all the more powerful—and all the more gutting.
Images from Sunday’s event show a smiling King posing with his plaque—just days before the illness took him.
Cause of death confirmed.
The AFL world has been rocked by the sudden loss of the inaugural Eagle, who died following a short battle with cancer on Wednesday.
King’s passing is another in a series of heartbreaking deaths that have hit the AFL community in recent years.
King, who played in the club’s debut VFL season in 1987, was one of the first ever players to wear the Eagles guernsey.
“The West Coast Eagles are saddened by the passing of inaugural squad member Sean King on Wednesday after a short illness,” the club posted.
West Perth and West Coast both issued touching tributes to the beloved wingman, remembering his skill, spirit, and devotion to the game.
He accepted the award surrounded by his family, friends, and former teammates, many of whom are now left reeling.
“Sean was a great bloke, with an infectious personality and was loved by all players, staff, and volunteers,” the club said in a statement.
Rest Easy, Sean King.
Whether on the team sheet or on the sidelines, King was known as the guy who kept spirits high and heads clear.
His off-field influence during West Perth’s premiership seasons can’t be measured on paper—but teammates say he was crucial.
Across social media, messages of grief and gratitude poured in, many echoing the same sentiment: “Gone way too soon.”
The cruel twist of fate is almost too much—King was celebrated on Sunday and died just three days later. A moment of triumph turned tragic.
Though he only played one VFL game, Sean King left a legacy that few ever will. A player. A mentor. A legend. Gone but not forgotten.