Boyd Cordner. A Sydney Roosters club legend.
That is all that really has to be said about Cordner who epitomised a tough, hard-nosed, and no-nonsense forward.
He put his body on the line every week, galvanised his teammates, and led them into battle.
In the end, unfortunately, it was leading from the front that has proved to be the ultimate death knell for Cordner’s career.
After prolonged issues with concussions, aged just 29, Cordner made the decision to retire from professional rugby league.
His impact has been felt across rugby league circles, as even rival fans appreciate the respect, integrity, and dignity he brought to the game.
Cordner retires having achieved all one can in the game; he captained the Sydney Roosters, won premierships with them, and played for both NSW and Australia.
Cordner admits that the decision to retire was not easy but when he looks back on his career, he has no regrets.
“This hasn’t been an easy decision for me to come to, but it’s the right one,” said Cordner.
“I’ve had some time to reflect on my career and I hang up the boots a very proud man.
“I’m so lucky to have had the opportunities I’ve had over the years, and to do it all at a Club like the Sydney Roosters means the world to me.”
At just 16, Cordner joined the Roosters organisation but he praised every person, every club, who played a role in his career.
“I was a 16-year-old kid from Old Bar when I moved down to join the Roosters and never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I’d get to be a part of so many amazing moments,” Cordner continued.
“I wouldn’t be the man I am today without the Roosters and Rugby League.
“So many people have played an important role in helping me in my career throughout the years, and I just want to say thanks to them all, right back to my junior club, the Old Bar Pirates.”
Roosters coach Trent Robinson did not mince his words, calling Cordner one of the best leaders he has ever seen.
“Boyd is one of the greatest leaders of men I have seen,” said Robinson.
“At any level of the game, I’m sure that every player who ever stood alongside Boyd would thank him for being the teammate and leader that he was.
“Boyd has been an incredible player and leader for the Roosters and I’ve loved coaching him.
“Boyd is a man of conviction, and his achievements over the years, not only at Club level but also in the representative arena, reflect the highly-respected man that he is.”
