Explore the latest developments concerning Vale: Chris Phelan.
Vale: Chris Phelan
The Parramatta Eels are deeply saddened by the passing of Chris Phelan (Eel #405), a member of the club’s 1982 and 1983 Premiership-winning teams.
Born in Ireland on December 12, 1955, Chris emigrated to Townsville in 1967 at age 12 under the “Ten Pound Pom” scheme. He began his rugby league journey with Estates in 1971, reaching A-Grade within two years.
He won a Townsville premiership with Souths in 1975 alongside his brother Paddy, later transitioning from wing to lock and earning Foley Shield Player of the Year honours in 1979.
A carpenter by trade, Chris built his strength and fitness through the physical demands of his work, carrying hardwood and heavy materials daily. After relocating to Brisbane, he further enhanced his conditioning, training with Greg Oliphant and tackling the torturous Mount Coot-tha runs in the height of summer.
'Tough as teak' two-time Parramatta Eels premiership winner Chris Phelan dies after cancer battle
Two-time Parramatta Eels premiership winner Chris Phelan has died at the age of 70 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
A member of the club's back-to-back titles in 1982 and 1983, the Irish-born forward's passing was confirmed by the Eels on Tuesday afternoon.
Phelan played 53 games in the blue and gold jersey, while also representing Queensland on four occasions in the early-80s.
READ MORE: 'Avert your eyes': Fighter strips down in hilarious scenes
READ MORE: Slater queries 'very hefty' ban as Gus makes big Staggs call
The front-rower was born in Portloise, Ireland but moved to Australia as part of the "10-pound Pom" scheme at the age of 12.
Super Automatic Espresso Machine 7" HD TFT Touchscreen Milk Frother 19 Bar Pressure
Tributes flow around NRL world after death of Eels champion and Origin player Chris Phelan
The NRL community is mourning the death of two-time Parramatta premiership winner and Queensland State of Origin player Chris Phelan. The Eels announced the sad news on Tuesday that Phelan passed away aged 70 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born in Ireland, the tough as nails forward only played 53 games for Parramatta from 1982 to 1984, but helped the Eels win back-to-back premierships in 82 and 83 before playing another grand final in 84. He also played four State of Origin games for Queensland after emigrating to Townsville.
He won the 1981 premiership with Souths Magpies in the Queensland competition, and was awarded the Rothmans Medal for player of the season. He had a stint with Oldham in England from 1984 to 1985, and then won another premiership with Souths Magpies in 1985 alongside Queensland legends Mal Meninga and Gary Belcher, with Wayne Bennett as coach.
For more detailed information, explore updates concerning Vale: Chris Phelan.
Leave a Reply