David Morrow: Legendary footy commentator is mourned after losing brave battle with brain cancer
- David Morrow, 71, died around midnight Tuesday
- Was recently honoured by the NRL Hall of Fame
- Colleague Ray Hadley announced the news on Wednesday
The football world is in mourning for esteemed commentator David Morrow after he died at the age of 71 from brain cancer.
His former colleague, radio announcer Ray Hadley, delivered the sad news on his 2GB show on Wednesday.
“I’ve worked with a lot of people in broadcasting over a long period of time. There’s no more versatile sports commentator than David Morrow,” Hadley said.
“He will be missed by everyone.”
Morrow was honoured last week with his induction into the NRL Hall of Fame.
He received the good news from Hadley over the phone while he was in hospital, with his wife Chris and commentator Mark Levy at his side.
He stepped away from the microphone earlier this year after hearing of his devastating cancer diagnosis.
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.
The death of David Morrow at the age of 71 has plunged the football world into mourning
Morrow (pictured left with 2GB colleague and former NRL star Mark Riddell), nicknamed ‘Thirsty’, is remembered as one of Australia’s finest sports reporters
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 inducting David Morrow,” ARL President Peter V’landys said of the broadcaster’s Hall of Fame induction.
‘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,” Hadley said.
‘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.’