The Mitcham Football Club is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Lee Gale on 15 April 2026, aged 92.
Lee joined Mitcham in 1963, having been recruited from Burwood Football Club where he served as Captain/Coach. His move was supported by then MFC President Graham Cassidy, who also provided Lee with employment as a contract courier within the growing Graham Cassidy Taxi Trucks business.
A fiercely competitive senior player, Lee was renowned for his toughness and his trademark drop kicks that would soar across Walker Park. Following his retirement from senior football, Lee’s contribution to the club only grew. He served as Reserves Captain/Coach for three years, Chairman of Selectors for eleven years, Secretary for four years, and President for three years. In 1988–89, he was appointed full-time Manager of the Mitcham Sporting Club.
Perhaps Lee’s greatest achievement came during his return as President in 1977. His leadership ushered in an extraordinary era for the club, highlighted by six consecutive Grand Final appearances and three Premierships in 1979, 1980 and 1981. During this time, he recruited a number of outstanding players who would go on to become future Captain/Coaches, Presidents and Treasurers of the club.
Lee was a true leader and a pillar of the Mitcham Football Club. In recognition of his outstanding service, he was awarded Life Membership in 1971 and inducted into the Club’s Hall of Fame in 2011.
To speak of Lee is also to acknowledge his wife, Bernice, who was a tireless contributor to the club in her own right, including serving as President of the Ladies Committee.
Away from football, Lee was a familiar and much-loved figure in the local community, owning and operating Mitcham Sports Stores for many years, where he repaired countless bikes for local families.
The Mitcham Football Club will honour Lee’s legacy this Saturday, with players wearing black armbands in recognition of his remarkable contribution.
Our deepest condolences are extended to Lee’s wife Bernice, his children Ray, Alan, Len, Barry and Linda, his grandchildren, and the wider Gale family.
Lee passed away in Narooma, NSW, where he had lived for many years.
Funeral details and information regarding a tribute to Lee will be shared in due course.
Rest in peace, Lee.