Ray Hadley’s emotional call to commentator David Morrow after NRL Hall of Fame recognition amid brain cancer battle
- Ray Hadley has spoken out about calling on sick ex-colleague David Morrow
- Hadley said he tried to “keep it together as best he could”
- Popular commentator, 71, battles brain tumors
Announcer Ray Hadley spoke about the heartbreaking phone call he had with former colleague David Morrow about his induction into the NRL Hall of Fame.
Respected Australian sports commentator David Morrow, 71, is to be inducted into the coveted NRL Hall of Fame as he continues to battle brain cancer.
Morrow received the call from Hadley while he was in the hospital, with his wife Chris and commentator Mark Levy at his side.
“It was a very emotional time. I tried to hold it together as best I could,” Hadley told his 2GB audience.
“Thirsty was asleep and then woke up. I explained to him and Chris while he was awake what had happened that day and that he had been inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame.
‘We talked as best we could and later I heard from Mark that David and Chris cried tears.’
The popular 2GB caller began his career more than 50 years ago, covering eight Olympic Games and six Commonwealth Games.
Morrow, who also worked for the ABC for many years, is nicknamed ‘Thirsty’ for his love of beer and has distinguished himself in rugby league, racing and cricket.
Ray Hadley has spoken about the emotional appeal with his friend and former colleague David Morrow
Respected Australian sports commentator David Morrow is set to be inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame as he continues to battle brain tumours
In 2005, Morrow was awarded an OAM for services to the community, sport and sports broadcasting.
“I am so pleased that the group was unanimous in appointing David Morrow,” ARL Chairman Peter V’landys told News Corp.
‘David has been a legendary contributor to the game for decades, writing colorful and insightful accounts of the game in his own unique style.’
In February, close friend Hadley confirmed that Morrow has cancer.
“David and the family wanted me to break the news not only to our media colleagues, but also to the millions of listeners David has interacted with over his 45-year career,” the former taxi driver said.
Morrow, 71, began his career more than 50 years ago and has covered eight Olympic Games and six Commonwealth Games.
‘Dorst, as he is commonly known, is a man of some substance.
‘It goes without saying that he is Australia’s most versatile sports reporter.
‘David recently informed his mates at the Continuous Call Team and Nine Radio management that he is retiring with immediate effect.
‘We were all shocked when, after a number of serious incidents in the off-season, we found out that David had been diagnosed with brain tumours.’