Therry Penola AFC Mourns the Loss of Inaugural Player, Passionate U19 Coach, and Longtime VAFA Stalwart, Stephen King, Who Inspired Generations After a Courageous Battle with Illness

Rest in peace, Kingy.

October 31, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 31, 2026

The amateur football community is mourning the loss of Stephen King, a former player, coach, and passionate advocate for the sport, who passed away on October 30, 2026, after a long battle with illness.

Stephen’s contributions to Victorian Amateur Football Association (VAFA) clubs, especially Therry Penola AFC, left a lasting mark on players and supporters alike.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ruth, and their daughters.

Many people expressed their sympathy, showing the respect he earned throughout his long career in the game.

Stephen’s journey in football began with Therry Penola AFC, where he was a proud member of the club’s inaugural side when it formed in 1978.

Based at John Pascoe Fawkner Reserve on Francis Street in Oak Park, Victoria, the club became a central part of his life.

He played a total of 31 games for Therry Penola, retiring in 1987 after nearly a decade of service.

During those years, Stephen embodied the spirit of amateur football, playing with heart and building strong bonds with teammates.

Beyond his playing days, Stephen transitioned into coaching and mentoring, roles where he truly shone.

In the mid-1980s, he took charge of Therry Penola’s Under-19 side, guiding young talents and helping develop several players who went on to become senior premiership winners.

His approach was hands-on and inspiring, focusing on growth both on and off the field.

Stephen’s passion for VAFA extended far beyond one club; he held various coaching and committee positions across multiple teams, always eager to give back to the community that shaped him.

He also spent many years playing at St Francis DSCC, where his storytelling and charismatic personality made him a memorable figure among peers.

The News of Stephen’s Passing was Shared by Therry Penola on Facebook in a Heartfelt Announcement that Captured his Legacy

The post read:

“Sadly, former Therry player and U19 coach Stephen King passed away yesterday after a long battle with illness. We extend our sincere condolences to Ruth and daughters during these sad times. Stephen was a member of the inaugural Therry side when formed in 1978. He played a total of 31 games finishing up in 1987. He was a coach and mentor for the u19 side in the mid 80’s producing several senior premiership players. Stephen was a passionate VAFA personality and performed various coaching and committee roles across several clubs. He will be missed by all. RIP!”

Via

As word spread, those who knew Stephen expressed their grief and fond memories through touching tributes.

John Toohey recalled him as a

“very caring 19’s coach, treated his players like young men not little boys, anyone who was around Kingy will have lasting happy memories. Vale Kingy we didn’t quite get to the top but we had fun trying.”

Via Facebook

Paul Murphy shared,

“Sad news, fond memories of him turning up to training in his Big V jumper.”

Via Facebook

Ross Davenport added,

“Very sad… also played at St Francis DSCC for many years, a real character who could tell a story!!” And Marty Gribble simply noted, “Sad news indeed RIP Kingy.”

Via Facebook

And Marty Gribble simply noted,

“Sad news indeed RIP Kingy.”

Via Facebook

These messages show the warmth, humor, and dedication that defined Stephen’s presence in the world of football.

Stephen King’s death marks the end of an era for many in the VAFA, but his influence lives on through the players he mentored and the clubs he supported.

He showed the importance of community and perseverance in every part of his journey in the sport.

Our thoughts are with Ruth, his daughters, and all who cherished him during this difficult time.

Rest in peace, Kingy.

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