Men of League member, Central Coast resident and well known Bush poet, Peter Mace, was so taken by the work of the Foundation that he wrote this great poem titled ‘Men of League’. Peter won the bush poetry competition at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, 2007 and is the current "Reciter of the Year" at the National Folk Festival, Canberra. This piece on the Men of League shows you why. If you’re interested in having Peter recite some of his best works at your next event or function, or would like to utilize the speaking talents of one of the great names in Rugby League, give the Men of League Legends a call on 02 8765 2232.
Men of League
© Peter Mace 2008
We have cheered them from the grandstands or watched them on TV
Some were playing for their district, some graced the SCG
The men of league have entertained, and entertain us still.
With that special combination of toughness, guts and skill
Whether playing for their nation or a suburbs local club
Be it in some foreign city or out there in the scrub
It’s the passion and support that helps make a winning team
Dedication to your team mates to help fulfil the dream
From a humble start in Sydney a hundred years ago
To million dollar salaries the game just seems to grow
But the teamwork that is evident out there on the field
That creed to help a mate in need is once again revealed
When any of their number, players, coaches, referees
Fall on hard times, caused by bad luck, injury, disease
It’s then the “Men of League” are there to lend a hand
This foundation put together by men who understand
That life can have its ups and downs, things aren’t always fair
So the “Men of League” are ready, to help provide the care
To those who have retired or with careers cut far too short
To the families and loved ones in need of some support
So hats off to those men who got together in ‘02
To Hall and Brown and Coote and all those who saw it through
To create this fine foundation of which you should be proud
For often heartfelt thanks exceed, the cheering of the crowd