GEELONG is mourning the passing of premiership wingman Syd Tate, who died on Monday at the age of 90.

Tate, who was born in England, played 85 games and kicked 13 goals for the Cats between 1947 and 1951.

A tough and speedy wingman, he was a member of the team that won the 1951 flag.

“He was quick, he was tough," former Cats player and recruiting guru Bill McMaster told the Geelong Advertiser.

"He was a sharp left footer, that’s exactly what he was.

“He was a very valuable member of the side. He laughed a lot, he had a great sense of humour."

Known as 'Spudda' or 'Tatey' to his mates, Tate wore No. 24 in all of his matches with Geelong.

He left the Cats to coach in the bush after the 1951 season, but later returned to the club as non-playing reserves coach.

He also worked alongside McMaster as a recruiting officer.

“He liked that, going around to see the footy, and he was a good judge,” McMaster said.

“He liked hard footballers. If they were a bit soft he wouldn’t have a bar of them.”

Tate's funeral will be held at 1pm on Thursday, May 21, at Geelong Christ Church.