The world of sports commentary has lost a true legend. Dennis Cometti, the beloved voice of Australian sports, has passed away at 76, leaving behind a legacy that will echo through stadiums and living rooms for generations. But here's where it gets emotional—his unique blend of wit, precision, and passion didn’t just narrate games; it transformed them into unforgettable stories. And this is the part most people miss: Cometti wasn’t just a commentator; he was a storyteller whose words became the soundtrack to some of the most iconic moments in AFL history.
Cometti’s journey spanned over five decades, during which he became a household name, particularly in AFL circles. His deep, resonant voice and clever wordplay set him apart, making him a master of his craft. While AFL was his forte, his talents extended to cricket and other sports, where his descriptive prowess shone just as brightly. But was his style too quirky for some? Or did it redefine what sports commentary could be? Let’s dive in.
Paired with Bruce McAvaney, Cometti formed a dynamic duo that set the gold standard for AFL commentary. Their partnership on Seven Network became the benchmark for all who followed. Together, they didn’t just call games—they elevated them, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary narratives. This partnership lasted until Cometti’s retirement in 2016, leaving fans to wonder: could anyone truly replace him?
Before becoming a commentator, Cometti was a footballer himself, playing and later coaching for West Perth in the WAFL. He even had a brief stint with Footscray (now the Western Bulldogs) in the VFL. This on-field experience gave him a unique perspective, allowing him to connect with players and fans alike.
Cometti’s commentary was peppered with memorable phrases that have since become part of AFL folklore. Who could forget “centimetre perfect” or “bobbing like a cork in the ocean”? The latter, delivered during West Coast’s 1992 grand final victory, remains a fan favorite. But were these phrases overused, or were they the secret sauce that made his commentary unforgettable?
Eddie McGuire, a longtime colleague and friend, described Cometti as “a complete joy to work with.” McGuire praised Cometti’s ability to capture the essence of a moment, whether through a precise call or a witty one-liner. He recalled Cometti’s commentary on Ben Cousins, saying, “Cousins runs away from Carr – not for the first time,” a line that perfectly encapsulated the player’s notorious incident. Another gem came during the 2010 grand final replay when Heath Shaw smothered Nick Riewoldt’s goal attempt: “He came up behind him like a librarian, he never heard him.”
Cometti’s talent wasn’t limited to one-liners. As McGuire noted, “He had a deep and abiding love of the game,” which shone through in every broadcast. Brownlow medallist Gerard Healy echoed this sentiment, calling Cometti “one of the best” and praising his ability to turn good moments into great ones and great moments into timeless memories.
Cometti’s impact was so profound that he remained a fixture in sports commentary even as broadcast rights shifted between networks. He worked for the ABC, Seven, Nine, 3AW, and Triple M, covering everything from AFL and cricket to the Olympics. His 51 seasons of football commentary across three TV networks cemented his status as a legend.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon mourned Cometti’s passing, stating, “He brought our game to life with his commentary.” His words resonated with players, fans, and colleagues alike, making his loss deeply felt across the sporting community.
Cometti’s “Cometti-isms” have become part of football’s cultural fabric. Phrases like “the Cat is still on the back,” referencing Tom Hawkins’ after-the-siren goal, are etched in the memories of fans. Even his lesser-known quips, like describing Hawthorn’s Matthew Suckling as allowing “two Geelong players to collide numerically,” showcased his unparalleled creativity.
Though his final TV commentary was in 2016, Cometti continued calling games for Triple M in Western Australia until the 2021 grand final. While AFL was his primary focus, he also made his mark in cricket, working alongside Alan McGilvray on the ABC for 13 years. At 23, he became the youngest commentator to call a Test match for the public broadcaster.
Cometti’s football career, though less celebrated, was equally impressive. He played 40 games for West Perth and coached the team for three seasons. His understanding of the game, both on and off the field, enriched his commentary and endeared him to fans.
As we reflect on Cometti’s legacy, one question lingers: Can modern commentators ever truly match his unique blend of wit, precision, and passion? Share your thoughts in the comments—did Cometti set a standard that’s impossible to surpass, or is there room for a new voice to redefine sports commentary? His passing marks the end of an era, but his words will forever echo in the hearts of sports lovers everywhere.
