The Sydney Swans join Australia’s sporting and media community in mourning the passing of sports journalist Rebecca Wilson.

A long-time Sydney Swans Ambassador, the 54-year-old lost her battle with breast cancer in the early hours of Friday morning.

Her family has issued a statement saying: "Courage has always been a significant part of her DNA, no less in her desperate battle against her insidious disease.”

Rebecca Wilson was one of the first Sydney Swans Ambassadors and one of the first high-profile personalities to advocate for the club. She regularly hosted Sydney’s pre-game functions and anchored Sydney’s Grand Final Breakfast, lending her support to the Swans with energy and enthusiasm.

Sydney Swans chairman Andrew Pridham has offered condolences to the Wilson family on behalf of the club. 

“We were shocked and saddened to learn of Rebecca’s passing today, she was a much-loved member of our Sydney Swans family,” Pridham said.

“Rebecca was passionate, courageous and fearless. She was an enduring advocate for AFL in NSW and generously gave her time to our football club, where she was respected by all.

“Our thoughts are with Rebecca’s husband John, and sons Tom and Will, at this very sad time.”