Bob Skilton Biography

Bobby Skilton is elevated to Legend status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.

"As just the fourth player in our game’s history to be recognised with Legend status, Bob is among the greatest small men to have played footy," AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan said.

"His incredible list of honours - three Brownlow Medals and nine best and fairest with South Melbourne - speak to his skills and brilliance, but Bobby has also been a lifetime ambassador for the game.

"He has been the bridge to the growth of the Swans in Sydney and the inspiration for so many thousands who love our game and cherish the Red and White.

"We congratulate Bobby and his family and thank him for everything he’s given our game, South Melbourne and the Sydney Swans."

A statue of triple Brownlow medallist Bob Skilton is unveiled at Lakeside Stadium, where he spent many years dominating opponents for South Melbourne.

Created by artist Cathy Weiszmann , the sculpture captured his left foot kick, with Skilton joking it moved about as fast as he did during his 237-game career between 1956 and 1971.

"I just feel so fortunate that people feel the way they do," Skilton said.

"I've always been a little blasé about these kind of things but now it's actually happened it's a bit different and I feel immensely proud."