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Terry Fearnley was remembered as a gentleman of rugby league and a driving force of professionalism in the modern game, following his death aged 81 on Wednesday,
A no-nonsense front-rower, Fearnley played 139 first grade games between 1954 and 1964 for Eastern Suburbs, before turning his hand to coaching and leading NSW to their first State of Origin series win in 1985.
The rugby league great was the mastermind behind the attacking kicking game of John Peard and the inventor of the controversial flying wedge in his time coaching at Parramatta.
He coached at Easts, Parramatta, Western Suburbs, Cronulla and Illawarra in over 200 first grade games as well as NSW (1977 and 1985) and Australia (1977 and 1985).
As a player he represented NSW for one game in 1960 and Sydney Colts against France in 1955.
He died in the early hours of Wednesday morning after a battle with cancer.
“Terry was rugby league royalty,” said NRL head of football Todd Greenberg.
“He was a player, coach, and has always been a respected voice in the game.
“He was a wonderful contributor to the game and was also a gentleman.”
After joining the Eels in 1975, Fearnley led the club to their first grand final in 1976 in the loss to Manly and again the following year when they lost to St George in the grand final replay, after the first decider was locked at 9-all.
Fearnley is credited with laying the foundations at the Eels that produced premierships in 1981, 1982, 1983 and 1986.
“Many of the players of our golden era owe their start and their development to Terry,” Eels chairman Steve Sharp said.
“Terry was fundamental to the history of the Parramatta Eels as our first grand final coach; he set the platform for an era when the Eels played in seven grand finals between 1976 and 1986.
“Terry was a gentleman and very well respected, and the club is saddened to hear of his passing.”
Flags at Sydney Roosters’ home ground Allianz Stadium were lowered to half mast upon the news of Fearnley’s death.
“Widely regarded as the ultimate gentleman on and off the field, the Sydney Roosters extend their condolences to the Fearnley family at this sad time,” the club said in a statement.
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