The Old Xaverians Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Andrew Rogers, a former player and coach with our club.

'Thirsty', as he became known around the club, went down fighting last week after a long illness, aged 57.

Andrew (XC '85) was captain of the U19s in 1986. He was a great rover, tenacious, tough and smart-lipped. He graduated to the Reserves before going back to coach the U19s in 1989. In 1995, he took over the Crocodiles coaching job. The 'Diles had won three flags in a row, and under 'Thirsty', they played again in the Grand Final.

However, this time, the Spearmint Hose lost by a point. Rogers moved on, but was delighted to see the Crocs win the next 11 flags. Andrew remained a regular at the club until 2004, when he and his family moved to Sydney. He moved back about six years ago and was a fixture every at Toorak Park, along with his boys.

Away from football, Andrew held various executive positions at major corporations, including the Ten Network and TABCorp.

He leaves his wife Kylie and three boys, Ned, Albie, Ollie, all of whom are students at Xavier.

Andrew was the son of Terry Rogers (who will be known to many at the Old Xavs) and his wife Judi, an the only brother of Gabrielle and Lizzie.

Our deepest condolences to them and to all of Andrew's extended family and his innumerable friends and mates.

'Thirsty' was a good man, loved by many, and will be missed.

Lord, grant unto him eternal rest and may perpetual light shine upon him.