All at Hawthorn Football Club send their heartfelt condolences to the family of legendary journalist and sports historian Harry Gordon, who passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 89.

In a career that spanned over 70 years, Gordon was a war correspondent, sports writer, editor, historian and author.

One of Australia’s most influential and respected journalists, Gordon was awarded the Australian Olympic movement's highest award, the Order of Merit, in 1999 and the International Olympic Committee's highest honour, the Olympic Order, in 2001.

In 2006 he was awarded the International Society of Olympic Historians highest honour, the ISOH Award and he was made a member of the Melbourne Press Club Hall of Fame in 2013.

Gordon also served as an inaugural member of the Australian Football Hall of Fame selection committee from 1996 until his retirement in 2008.

He wrote 15 books, including acclaimed histories The Hard Way (1990) and One For All (2009; which he co-wrote with his son Michael) about his beloved Hawthorn Football Club.

Hawthorn President Andrew Newbold extended his deepest sympathies to Harry’s family, friends and former colleagues.

“The Board of Directors, management, staff and players of Hawthorn Football Club wish to extend their sincerest condolences to Harry’s wife Joy and children Michael, John and Sally at this sad time,” Newbold said.

“Always with a twinkle in his eye, Harry lived life to the fullest and we pay tribute to the incredible contribution he made to international and national sport, journalism and the AFL.

“Harry’s work helped shape and enrich the history of Hawthorn Football Club – one of his great loves – and he will be remembered as a true gentleman and loyal friend of all at the club.