Pioneer, innovator, legend: just some of the labels that have been applied to AFL great Ron Barassi following his passing.

Accomplished sports journalist Peter Lalor had the chance to meet Barassi on occasion, and shared with Jamie Burnett on 6PR Mornings not many players have had as big an impact.

“He learnt all his tricks from Norm Smith, who is seen as one of the greatest coaches of all time; looking back, I think Barassi might have stolen that off him,” Mr Lalor said.

Press PLAY to hear more remembrance of Ron Barassi’s legendary career

Image: Sarah Reed/AFL Photos via Getty Images