Neil Mitchell has paid touching tribute to his “hero”, Ron Barassi.

The 3AW Mornings host grew up wearing football boots with Barassi’s signature on them, and as an adult, became friends with his hero.

“He was my sports hero and I grew up and had the extraordinary privilege to call him a friend,” he said.

Press PLAY below to hear Neil Mitchell’s personal tribute to his friend

Neil Mitchell shares a heartfelt message from Ron Barassi’s family

From the archives: Neil Mitchell’s 2016 interview with Ron Barassi

Image (Barassi): Ryan Pierse/Getty Images