‘A true visionary’: AFL world in mourning after death of VFL club president, aged 39

The footy world is in mourning after the passing of Southport Sharks president Matthew Schneider, aged 39, after a determined battle with bowel cancer.

The Sharks, who play in the VFL, released a statement on Saturday confirming Schneider had died and would be remembered as a “respected leader, a loving family man and a true visionary”.

Schneider became a Sharks director in September 2020 – around 12 months after he presented the club’s board with a “masterplan vision that was truly prodigious”, according to Southport, to ensure the Sharks remained one of the strongest state league clubs in the country. He was then appointed club president in May 2022.

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Matt Schneider at a Future Gold Coast Luncheon at Seascape Restaurant in 2021. Picture: Jerad WilliamsSource: News Corp Australia

Schneider oversaw Southport’s impressive first two seasons in the VFL. The Sharks finished second on the ladder with a 9-1 record in 2021 before the season was called off due to a Covid-enforced lockdown. They then made the 2022 grand final, only to go down to Casey Demons by 32 points.

The Sharks said Schneider would also be remembered as “an industry leader with a passion for the Gold Coast”.

Away from footy, Schneider was a director of Urbis and a leading member of the Gold Coast community, sitting on several boards and holding various public service roles.

AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan said the game extended its sincere condolences to the Schneider family.

Matthew Schneider, who despite battling stage four bowel cancer, gave a warm and hopeful address at the YP City Leaders Forum luncheon in 2022. Picture: Sam StolzSource: Gold Coast Bulletin

“Matt lived life to its full, with a huge love for his family and a dedication for the Gold Coast region. Football was privileged and lucky to have him in our game and we offer our deep sympathies to Matt’s family and many friends,” McLachlan said.

Sam Schneider posted a touching tribute to her husband on Saturday morning.

“Matt has passed peacefully, and with grace, after a stoic and hard fought battle. In true Matt style, there was no fuss, he simply decided that it was time to go,” she wrote in a social media post.

“Thank you for the outpouring of love, affection and camaraderie that you have showered Matt, and our family with, during this time.