Tributes are flowing today for Australian rugby league legend, John Sattler, who passed away yesterday at the age of 80.
The league tough man famously led the South Sydney Rabbitohs to premiership glory in 1970, playing the majority of the game with a broken jaw.
He played 197 games for Souths between 1963 and 1972, which also included four games for the Australian national side.
He also captained the team to four premiership victories between 1967 and 1971.
John had been battling dementia in recent years.
Commentator and former coach, Phil Gould wrote of John’s passing: “Very sad. An ornament to the game. Fierce competitor on the field. Tough as they come. Off the field, he was a kind and thoughtful man. Always impeccably dressed. Pride in his appearance and presentation. Always supportive of others. Great role model. RIP John Sattler.”
South Sydney Rabbitohs chairman, Nick Pappas said John epitomised the true spirit of the club.
“He was tough and brave but fair, uncompromising on the field and empathetic off it, and he truly epitomised everything that we want the Rabbitohs to be,” said Mr Pappas.
“Our deepest and most sincere condolences go out to his son Scott and the entire Sattler family, his former team mates, and all of his friends that he has touched over the years.
“Rest in peace, ‘Satts’.”
Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys also paid tribute, calling John a legend of the game.
“The tales of his toughness were quite extraordinary, but they were also at odds with his nature off the field. He was a true gentleman,” Mr V’landys said in a statement.
“On behalf of the Commission, I extend our condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew him.”
