One of my favourite rugby league players, Hazem El-Masri, will be retiring at the end of the 2009 season. Even though I am not a Bulldogs fan, Hazem has broken almost all their club records and represented Australia (and its Lebanese community) with great assurance, skill and dignity. In 2009 he took the record for the highest-ever point scorer in NRL history. He is also widely respected for his community work with young people, winning the NRLs Ken Stephen Award in 2002. The award recognises players who contribute to the betterment of their community away from rugby league. A seriously underestimated player, I am equally sure that if Hazem had been a little larger in stature (he is only about 5'8" tall) he would have had a much longer international career playing for the Kangaroos. Hazem, thank you for your efforts on and off the field, I will remember you well for your tries, your kicking, your maturity and your softly spoken ways. Rugby League will miss you but the game has been much richer for your presence.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
El-Magic to retire
One of my favourite rugby league players, Hazem El-Masri, will be retiring at the end of the 2009 season. Even though I am not a Bulldogs fan, Hazem has broken almost all their club records and represented Australia (and its Lebanese community) with great assurance, skill and dignity. In 2009 he took the record for the highest-ever point scorer in NRL history. He is also widely respected for his community work with young people, winning the NRLs Ken Stephen Award in 2002. The award recognises players who contribute to the betterment of their community away from rugby league. A seriously underestimated player, I am equally sure that if Hazem had been a little larger in stature (he is only about 5'8" tall) he would have had a much longer international career playing for the Kangaroos. Hazem, thank you for your efforts on and off the field, I will remember you well for your tries, your kicking, your maturity and your softly spoken ways. Rugby League will miss you but the game has been much richer for your presence.
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