The Port Adelaide Football Club mourns the passing of its club historian John Sincock, who passed away on Tuesday after battling a long illness.

Mr Sincock took over as the club’s historian at the end of 1995 and dutifully maintained and expanded records and artefact collections of the club following its elevation into the Australian Football League in 1996.

He concurrently maintained the club’s SANFL records as a separate entity in the South Australian state league up to and beyond the reunification of the Power and Magpies in 2010.

Port Adelaide chief executive officer Keith Thomas expressed his condolences for Mr Sincock’s family, saying his contribution among a list of notable club historians including Allan Robert McLean OBE and John Wood would be forever valued and remembered.

“As the oldest, continuous football club in South Australia, our history and successes of yesteryear are as valuable to our people as the successes of tomorrow,” said Mr Thomas.

“John’s passion for the club was undeniable, and his knowledge and expertise when it came to the history and records of Port Adelaide in South Australian and national football was enviable and significant.

“He is responsible for the crucial preservation of our rich material history in a time of change for the club as it transitioned into the national competition, and the continuation of record keeping in the SANFL.

“On behalf of everyone at the club and in our wider club community, I express our condolences to all of John’s family at this sad and difficult time.

“Be assured John’s contribution to our club is one that is deeply valued and appreciated by all players, coaches and staff – past and present.”

Mr Sincock was made a life member of the Port Adelaide Football Club in 2010. He served as the club’s historian for 18 years. The club will also recognise the contribution of Mr Sincock to the club in due course.