Dennis Cometti, Australian Sports Broadcasting Legend, Passes Away at 76
The world of sports commentary has lost one of its most distinctive voices with the passing of Dennis Cometti at the age of 76. Cometti, who was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2019, leaves behind a legacy marked by erudition, humor, and an unparalleled dedication to his craft.
A Master of Wit and Timing
Dennis Cometti was celebrated for his sharp wit and impeccable timing, qualities that made him a beloved figure across Australian broadcasting. His ability to deliver perfect one-liners in the heat of the moment became his trademark, earning him comparisons to the finest orators in sports history. As the late Tony Charlton once said, sporting commentators should "produce words like bubbles in champagne," and Cometti exemplified this with a repertoire few could match.
Overcoming the Odds as an Outsider
In many ways, Cometti was an outsider in the commentary world. Hailing from Western Australia and without a legendary VFL playing career to his name, he faced skepticism from audiences unaccustomed to his dulcet tones and intellectual style. Yet, he proved himself through sheer professionalism and versatility. His breakthrough came during the chaotic 1989 grand final between Hawthorn and Geelong, where he maintained composure amidst pandemonium, delivering a call that was both accurate and engaging.
Defining Moments Across Sports
Cometti's career spanned over a quarter of a century, during which he called some of football's most defining moments. From Peter Wilson's match-turning goal in 1992 to Nick Riewoldt's courageous mark and Heath Shaw's iconic tackle in 2010, Cometti was always there—never overbearing, always on beat. His talents extended beyond football; he was a terrific cricket caller and shone at the Olympics, most notably with his masterful call of Kieren Perkins' 1500-meter swim victory at Atlanta 1996.
The Craft of Commentary
Cometti approached commentary as a true craft, meticulously preparing for each broadcast. He worked alongside Bruce McAvaney, forming an unbeatable duo despite their contrasting styles. While McAvaney brought explosive energy, Cometti was the calm, prepared barrister with a briefcase of color-coded notes. He rarely used his prepared material, instead waiting decades for the perfect moment to unleash his wit, as seen in his career-best calls during grand finals.
A Personal Legacy
Behind the microphone, Cometti was a man of depth and resilience. The son of an Italian immigrant, he faced personal tragedy when his father died suddenly during his youth. Despite his fame and ability to command rooms in London and New York, he remained rooted in Perth, living in the house he grew up in. His dedication to his craft and his humble origins shaped the commentator and man he became.
An Enduring Voice
Dennis Cometti may be gone, but his voice and legacy endure. He treated commentary with the respect of a master craftsman, leaving behind a body of work that will be replayed for generations. In moments of sporting seismic shifts, absurdity, or unexpected brilliance, fans will still instinctively turn to Dennis for the words—a testament to the indelible mark he left on Australian sports broadcasting.
