Former Australian rugby league centre Terry Hill, a revered name in NRL history, has tragically passed away at the age of 52.
Having graced the fields for notable clubs like Manly, Wests Tigers, Wests, Souths, and Eastern Suburbs, Hill's contribution to the sport is profound.
His untimely demise, reportedly due to a heart attack in the Philippines, was confirmed by the Manly Sea Eagles club to ABC Sport through an official email.
Terry Hill emerged as a prominent figure during the 1990s and early 2000s, earning accolades for his exceptional skills and dedication to the game.
Peter V'landys, the chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission, spoke of Hill's universal appeal within the rugby league community, emphasizing his remarkable talent and charismatic personality.
Hill's illustrious career saw him don the national jersey in nine Test matches for Australia and represent New South Wales on 14 occasions in the fiercely contested State of Origin series.
Amassing 246 first-grade appearances, Hill's journey in the NRL commenced with Souths in 1990, but it was his tenure with the Manly Sea Eagles that truly defined his legacy.
Notably, Hill was part of the Sea Eagles' triumphant 1996 ARL premiership-winning squad, showcasing his prowess as a formidable athlete.
His impact extended beyond the playing field, as he became a beloved figure known for his camaraderie and larger-than-life persona.
One of the most memorable moments in Hill's career was his iconic showdown with Queensland Maroons' Gorden Tallis during Game II of the 1999 series, etching his name in rugby league folklore.
Manly Sea Eagles CEO Tony Mestrov and premiership captain Geoff Toovey paid heartfelt tributes to Hill, highlighting his enduring influence and cherished memories.
However, Hill's influence transcended rugby league, as he passionately advocated for greyhound racing, leveraging his platform to promote the sport during his playing days.
Rob Macaulay, the chief executive of Greyhound Racing NSW, expressed profound sadness at Hill's passing, acknowledging his invaluable contribution to the greyhound racing community.
The NRL mourns the loss of Terry Hill, a true legend whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of rugby league enthusiasts.
source: abc.net
