St Kilda's only premiership captain and AFL Legend Darrel Baldock has died following a stroke.

Baldock, 72, passed away on Wednesday evening at the Mersey Community Hospital at Latrobe in Tasmania's north.

He may have only played 119 games for the Saints in the 1960s, but will be remembered as one of the club's most-revered figures.

Baldock captained St Kilda to their only flag in 1966 and is regarded as one of the more skilful players in the game's history.

He played 119 games for St Kilda from 1962-68, was the club's best and fairest in 1962, 1963 and 1965 and kicked 237 goals.

He also coached the club between 1987-89 and was named the captain of St Kilda's team of the century in 2002, later earning official legend status in the AFL Hall Of Fame.

A gifted cricketer, he played briefly for Tasmania before concentrating on football and was a state politician after his sporting career ended.

"I'm sure I reflect every St Kilda fan and member's thoughts in that they're greatly saddened by the news of Darrel Baldock's passing," Saints chief executive Michael Nettlefold said in a statement.

"'The Doc' is clearly one of the great legends of our football club and will never be forgotten.

"He will long be remembered for his pursuits on the field and his lifetime commitment to St Kilda Football Club. This is a very sad day for the greater St Kilda family."

Saints coach Ross Lyon described Baldock as a "quintessential St Kilda player".

"As a premiership captain, coach and Hall of Fame member, he represented and displayed all the values we like to stand for. He has left a magnificent imprint on the club," Lyon said.

AFL chief executive officer Andrew Demetriou said the AFL had lost "a hero from the football community."

"Australian Football is tonight mourning the loss of one of its Legends, a man in Darrel Baldock, who numbered among just 23 individuals recognised for service to the game, on the field, above all others who have played, coached, administered, umpired and simply loved our game," Demetriou said.

"Beyond his wonderful skills and his courage, Baldock was a man apart for his grace and his wonderful humility, and football was privileged that Baldock gave himself to our game."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP