Ken Thornett, a Parramatta Eels great, passes away at age 78
The Parramatta Eels great Ken Thornett, sometimes known as the “Mayor of Parramatta,” passed away at the age of 78, and rugby league supporters are in deep sorrow.
The Parramatta Eels legend Ken Thornett, who passed away at the age of 78, is being mourned by rugby league supporters.
Known as the “Mayor of Parramatta,” Thornett is regarded as one of the best players in Eels history, having played 133 games in blue and gold between 1962 and 1971.
After finishing bottom of the table eight times between 1952 and 1961, Thornett guided the Eels to their first finals participation in 1962. He is honored annually with the Parramatta Player’s Player Award.
Thornett is honored by having his western grandstand named at Pirtek Stadium. In 2008, he was chosen one of Australia’s 100 greatest rugby league players in honor of the sport’s centennial.
Thornett represented Australia in 12 rugby league tests as well.
On Twitter, players and supporters of rugby league shared their sorrow.
“I’m very sorry to hear about Ken Thornett’s passing. I’ve never met a nicer man.” Eels legend Eric Grothe Sr. tweeted, “RIP #legend.”
Todd Greenberg, the CEO of the NRL, also expressed gratitude.
“I’m sorry to learn about the legendary Ken Thornett’s demise. He tweeted, “We at @NRL send our condolences to his family on behalf of all of us.”
Thornett has made a significant contribution to the Eels, according to chairman Max Donnelly.
Donnelly remarked, “Ken had a tremendous impact on our club and it is with great sadness that we hear of his passing today.”
“Being one of the most feared fullbacks in the 1960s and establishing a professionalism that laid the groundwork for our success in the 1970s and 80s, Ken, together with his brother Dick, turned the Eels into a competitive force during their time.
“I have conveyed to Mrs. Thornett and Ken’s family the Club’s deepest condolences during our conversation this morning.”
The Canberra Raiders game on Sunday will include black armbands for the players, and the club has organized a significant memorial for its Round 25 match at Parramatta Stadium.
Thornett is also thought to be among the greatest fullbacks to have ever played for Leeds Rhinos, an English rugby league team.
