Rugby league community pays tribute to South Sydney legend John Sattler

Legendary South Sydney player John Sattler has died aged 80.

The forward led the Rabbitohs to four Premierships during a glittering career, with the 1970 Grand Final victory over Manly forever engraved in rugby league folklore after Sattler played a leading role despite suffering a broken jaw early in the game had moved.

The rugby league world mourns the death of John Sattler

Sattler made 195 appearances for the Souths, making him the club’s eighth-best player, while also appearing in four Tests for the Kangaroos.

“The South Sydney Rabbitohs mourn the loss of club and rugby league legend John Sattler, who passed away today at the age of 80,” the club said in a statement.

“Mr. Sattler is one of the greatest leaders the club has ever had. He played in six major finals, captained the team in five of those and guided the club to four Premier League titles in 1967, 1968, 1970 and 1971. “

Sattler, who is a member of the NRL Hall of Fame, was also honored by Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys.

“John was a legend of the game,” he said.

“The stories about his toughness were quite extraordinary, but they were also at odds with his nature off the field. He was a true gentleman.

“These qualities made him such a remarkable and celebrated leader. He has captained his club South Sydney and his country three times.

“On behalf of the Commission, I offer our condolences to his family, friends and everyone who knew him.”

South Sydney pays tribute to John Sattler

“If anyone embodies the true spirit of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, it’s John Sattler,” said club chairman Nicholas Pappas.

“He bled red and green. He would do anything for his teammates. He never went backwards. He always led from the front.

“He was loved by everyone associated with the Rabbitohs, whether it was one of his former team-mates whom he guided to Premier League glory, or the man on the street who loved South Sydney as much as he did.

“He was tough and brave but fair, uncompromising on the field and empathetic off it, and he truly embodied everything we want the Rabbitohs to do.

“He was always very fond of the Rabbitohs and everyone here at the Rabbitohs has always been very fond of ‘Satts’.”

The club will pay tribute to Sattler ahead of Saturday’s Round 4 clash against the Sea Eagles at the Accor Stadium.