Tribute to his legacy: Parramatta Eels club legend Ron Lynch passes away at 84
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The Parramatta Eels community is in a sombre mood as it bids farewell to one of its most prominent figures, Ron 'Thirsty' Lynch.
Lynch passed away at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness in a Sydney hospital.
His departure leaves a void in the hearts of many and marks the end of an era for the club and the sport of rugby league.
Ron Lynch's moniker, 'Thirsty’, was a testament to his larger-than-life personality and his insatiable appetite for the game.
His career with the Eels spanned a remarkable decade during the 1960s, a period in which he became synonymous with the club's identity and ethos.
Lynch's prowess on the field was matched by his leadership qualities. Just a year after his debut in 1961, he earned the captaincy of the Eels, a role he embraced with the same vigour and passion he displayed in every match.
His contributions to the Eels were immense, with a staggering 194 games to his name, including a stint as Captain-Coach, a role that showcased his understanding of the game and his ability to inspire those around him.
Lynch's talents were not confined to club level; he also donned the Australian jersey, bringing pride to the Eels with his international recognition.
In 1972, Lynch extended his influence to the Penrith Panthers, where he captained the team for 44 games across two seasons before hanging up his boots.
His legacy, however, continued to resonate long after his retirement.
The Eels honoured him with a life membership in 1970 and a rightful place in the club's Hall of Fame in 2003, cementing his status as a true legend of the club.
The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the rugby league community.
The New South Wales Rugby League and the Rugby League Players' Association (RLPA) have both expressed their deep sadness and extended their condolences to Lynch's family and friends.
‘The RLPA sends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ron Lynch,’ RLPA posted on social media.
‘Predominantly playing as a forward, Ron played an incredible 238 games over 13 seasons for Parramatta and Penrith and also represented NSW and Australia.’
‘Vale, Ron Lynch,’ the wrote.
Fans have also paid tribute to Lynch, with one saying, ‘Great player and man. I knew him when I was a young boy, and he played for Forbes before heading to the Eels. [Rest in peace], Ron.’
‘Great footballer and even better bloke. I hope Parramatta does something at the next home game to recognise his great contributions to the Parramatta Club,’ another stated.
‘One of [Parramatta’s] best players and blokes. Loved watching him from the hardwood bleaches at the Cumberland. RIP, Ron,’ a third person said.
His impact on the sport and the lives he touched is evident in the widespread mourning and the heartfelt messages that have been shared.
Ron Lynch's legacy is not merely in the records he set or the games he played; it is in the spirit he brought to the field, the leadership he exemplified, and the community he helped build.
As the Eels and the wider rugby league fraternity come to terms with this loss, we reflect on the indelible mark he left on the sport.
To the family, friends, and countless fans of Ron Lynch, the Seniors Discount Club extends its deepest condolences. May he rest in peace.
Lynch passed away at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness in a Sydney hospital.
His departure leaves a void in the hearts of many and marks the end of an era for the club and the sport of rugby league.
Ron Lynch's moniker, 'Thirsty’, was a testament to his larger-than-life personality and his insatiable appetite for the game.
His career with the Eels spanned a remarkable decade during the 1960s, a period in which he became synonymous with the club's identity and ethos.
Ron Lynch passed away at the age of 84. Image source: @RLPlayers/ X (Twitter)
Lynch's prowess on the field was matched by his leadership qualities. Just a year after his debut in 1961, he earned the captaincy of the Eels, a role he embraced with the same vigour and passion he displayed in every match.
His contributions to the Eels were immense, with a staggering 194 games to his name, including a stint as Captain-Coach, a role that showcased his understanding of the game and his ability to inspire those around him.
Lynch's talents were not confined to club level; he also donned the Australian jersey, bringing pride to the Eels with his international recognition.
In 1972, Lynch extended his influence to the Penrith Panthers, where he captained the team for 44 games across two seasons before hanging up his boots.
His legacy, however, continued to resonate long after his retirement.
The Eels honoured him with a life membership in 1970 and a rightful place in the club's Hall of Fame in 2003, cementing his status as a true legend of the club.
The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the rugby league community.
The New South Wales Rugby League and the Rugby League Players' Association (RLPA) have both expressed their deep sadness and extended their condolences to Lynch's family and friends.
‘The RLPA sends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ron Lynch,’ RLPA posted on social media.
‘Predominantly playing as a forward, Ron played an incredible 238 games over 13 seasons for Parramatta and Penrith and also represented NSW and Australia.’
‘Vale, Ron Lynch,’ the wrote.
Fans have also paid tribute to Lynch, with one saying, ‘Great player and man. I knew him when I was a young boy, and he played for Forbes before heading to the Eels. [Rest in peace], Ron.’
‘Great footballer and even better bloke. I hope Parramatta does something at the next home game to recognise his great contributions to the Parramatta Club,’ another stated.
‘One of [Parramatta’s] best players and blokes. Loved watching him from the hardwood bleaches at the Cumberland. RIP, Ron,’ a third person said.
His impact on the sport and the lives he touched is evident in the widespread mourning and the heartfelt messages that have been shared.
Ron Lynch's legacy is not merely in the records he set or the games he played; it is in the spirit he brought to the field, the leadership he exemplified, and the community he helped build.
As the Eels and the wider rugby league fraternity come to terms with this loss, we reflect on the indelible mark he left on the sport.
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Ron Lynch my thoughts and prayers go out to his family
