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A local community is banging the drum for recently retired rugby league star Boyd Cordner to have a medal named after him in the local competition where he first played.
Key points:
- Cordner retired yesterday after suffering several concussions throughout his career
- He grew up in Taree and is considered one of its best players ever
- A former club president wants a medal named in his honour
The 29-year-old hung up his boots in a career that featured 181 NRL games for the Sydney Roosters, 20 tests for Australia, and 16 State of Origin matches for New South Wales.
A former official who oversaw the junior competitions where Cordner played as a boy, Kevin Hardy, wants a medal to be named in his honour.
Mr Hardy said Cordner never forgot his roots or where he came from.
The second-row forward's retirement was brought on by repeat concussions.
His teammate Jake Friend also retired from the NRL this year after dealing with more than 20 concussions in his career.
ABC News: Nick Sas
)'Typical bush footballer'
Mr Hardy remembers as Cordner was coming through the ranks he was a versatile player who was talented, but never imagined he would achieve all that he has.
"'He's excelled more than I really thought he would. He captained Australia and captained the origin side," he said.
Cordner's junior rugby league club Old Bar Pirates paid tribute to the second-rower in a post to social media.
"Thank you and congratulations on your career! No one in Old Bar ever questioned your passion, drive, and commitment!" it said.
"To see what you’ve achieved speaks volumes of your character.
New South Wales Rugby League have been contacted for comment.