Steve Arthur, far right, passsed away last night.

AFL Asia President, Phil Johns, sends a note to the Asian Presidents on the passing of former Philippine Eagles President, Steve Arthur.

Dear Asian Presidents

I have just been advised of the passing of Steve “Fat Cat” Arthur, former President of the Philippine Eagles (he only resigned earlier this month).

The Eagles have just posted on Facebook the terribly sad news:

“It is with great sadness and heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Steve ‘Fat Cat’ Arthur. Steve passed away early this morning due to compilations that cause the swelling of the brain which then cause a seizure.

“Steve was a Stawell of the PAFL and his years of commitment and passion to the PAFL and the game is a key reason for its success and growth. A passionate Kangaroo, Motorbike and Cricket fanatic, he will be greatly missed by all those that had the fortune of knowing him.

“Our thoughts are with his wife Einah and children Shannon & Stacey at this time. A memorial will be held with details to be provide later.”

To recently appointed Eagles President, Peter Hammon, please pass on AFL Asia’s deepest sympathies and condolences to Steve’s family. This is a massive shock for us and so we can only imagine what it must be like for the family.

As a mark of respect, the Vietnam Swans will wear black armbands at their next match (25 January) and I am sure many other AFL Asia Clubs will do the same at their next matches.

R.I.P. Steve Arthur.