Veteran sports broadcaster Dennis Cometti has died aged 76, with his family confirming the devastating news.

Best known for his distinctive VFL/AFL commentary from 1986 until his retirement 35 years later, Cometti’s voice became synonymous with some of Australian football’s biggest moments.

He retired from television following Channel 7’s broadcast of the 2016 AFL grand final.

ABC presenter Mark Gibson fought back tears as he announced the news on Perth radio.

“Dennis Cometti is a legend of this state in broadcasting, in sports, in media, and is a much-loved member of the community,” he said.

Cometti began his media career at the ABC in 1972, calling Test cricket for more than a decade before moving to the Seven Network in 1986 to focus on football.

Across a 51-year career, he also broadcast three Summer Olympic Games, Barcelona in 1992, Atlanta in 1996 and Sydney in 2000.

A former player, the Western Australian ran out 40 times for West Perth in the WAFL before injury ended his hopes of a VFL career in 1971.

He went on to call nearly 500 AFL games alongside close friend Bruce McAvaney.

When Cometti was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2020, McAvaney reflected on his colleague’s enduring influence.

“There are a lot of very good commentators, many that have come before Dennis and there’ll be a lot that come after him, but I really believe he’s the benchmark,” he said.

“Of all the people that have called the game, Dennis has created an aura about himself and an excellence that does stand alone, and for that he should be very proud.”

The AFL paid tribute in a statement: “Revered AFL commentator Dennis Cometti has passed away aged 76. Known for his dry wit and inspired turn of phrase, Cometti retired in 2021 after a career that spanned 51 years and countless iconic one-liners. Vale, Dennis.”

Others have also paid tribute to the legendary commentator, with Seven News sports presenter Ryan Daniels describing the loss as devastating.

“Shattering news this morning for all in the football community,” he began.

“The great Dennis Cometti has passed away, after batting illness. Aged 76. The greatest caller our game has seen, a true icon.

“Dennis was not only brilliant, but thoughtful and generous toward all those lucky enough to be in his presence. Devastating, and thoughts with his family, and many friends, fans.”

Former ABC sports commentator Glenn Mitchell wrote: “Shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Dennis Cometti at age 76. A true master of his craft.

“He was the sound track of our sporting memories … AFL, Test cricket & swimming. Will treasure the times I was fortunate to sit alongside him. Thoughts with Velia & family.”

Presenter Shane McInnes added: “Absolutely shattered to hear of Dennis Cometti’s passing. He started off as an idol, became a colleague and finished up as a friend and mentor.

“A beautiful man whose infectious on air personality was matched by his humour and warmth off air. Vale my friend.”

Cometti was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2019 and the Australian Football Hall of Fame the following year.

Beloved for his dry wit and unmistakable delivery – including the famous phrase “centimetre perfect” – Cometti’s commentary became part of the fabric of Australian sport.

A documentary celebrating his life and career, titled Centimetre Perfect, is due to air on Seven and 7plus Sport later this year.

Images: 7News