Jorja Brinums – QRL
There has been an outpouring of grief and many memories shared by the rugby league community following the tragic death of Wynnum Manly Seagulls skipper Mitch Cronin.
Cronin – fondly referred to as ‘a gun’ by many – has been remembered for his kind nature, cheesy grin and superb skills on the field.
Wynnum Manly team mates, including Pat Templeman and Keenan Palasia, have expressed how much they will miss Cronin.
Wynnum Manly young gun Shannon Gardiner said Cronin was “the big brother I never had”.
“You were hands down the most genuine and caring guy I’ve ever met and probably will ever meet,” Gardiner wrote on Instagram.
Former Canberra Raiders team mate Jordan Rapana expressed absolute disbelief.
Burleigh Bears skipper Luke Page remembered Cronin, who he spent time with at the Raiders and played against in last year’s Intrust Super Cup grand final, as “an absolute legend”.
“You couldn’t miss that cheesy smile… he pretty much had me at hello,” Page said.
The Bears’ Jeff Lynch said Cronin would definitely be sorely missed by everyone he came in contact with.
The outpouring has, quite simply, been huge – and rightfully so.
Cronin was one of the most talented and versatile players in the Intrust Super Cup, having played 116 games in Queensland’s premier statewide competition.
After scoring a hat-trick on debut for Souths Logan Magpies, Cronin played 85 games for Wynnum Manly, including the 2019 grand final against the Burleigh Bears.
His consistent performances saw him represent the XXXX Queensland Residents across four consecutive years following his debut in 2016.
QRL and NRL wellbeing officers have been mobilised to assist the family and club in any way possible.