- The former Rabbitohs sadly passed away on Thursday morning at the age of 82
- Eric Robinson played 67 games for the Souths during his career
- He made his debut in 1961 and played for the Souths for four years
The South Sydney Rabbitohs have paid tribute to former player and life member Eric Robinson, who sadly passed away on Thursday morning at the age of 82.
Born in Hillston, New South Wales in 1942, Robinson played 67 games between 1960 and 1964, including 42 first-class games for the Souths.
The footy star made his debut for the club in 1961 during the first round of the season against the Eastern Suburbs.
A Bundjalung man, his journey in rugby league began as a 15-year-old and made his first-grade debut for the Souths when he was 18.
He was known for his excellent agility, with Robinson scoring 18 first-class tries for the Rabbitohs during his four seasons at the club.
On
“On behalf of everyone associated with the Rabbitohs, we offer our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family and friends.”
Former South Sydney Rabbitohs player Eric Robinson has died aged 82
Robinson made 67 appearances for the Souths during his four-year spell at the club
Robinson’s son is former AFL star Ricky Walford, who played first-class rugby league for the Roosters, Bears and Dragons between 1982 and 1996.
Robinson’s family has a rich rugby league heritage, while his grandsons have also played the sport at the highest level. His grandson Nathan Merritt followed in his grandfather’s footsteps and played for South Sydney and the Cronulla Sharks.
While his other grandsons, Travis Robinson and his twin brother Reece Robinson, both played professionally for top flight clubs.
Their grandfather, Eric, would leave the Rabbitohs after the 1964 season. He would enjoy spells at Maitland, Brisbane Wests and Bourke, before calling time on his career after a spell with the Redfern All Blacks.
In an online statement, the Rabbitohs wrote: ‘Eric was a cornerstone of the Redfern community as an honorary elder with the Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group. His enduring nickname, ‘The Legend’, reflects not only his remarkable career, but also his role in paving the way for future Aboriginal sports stars.
“Eric Robinson’s story is not just a story of personal achievement, but of a profound legacy that continues to inspire and shape the Australian Rugby League.
‘On behalf of everyone associated with the Rabbitohs, we offer our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr Eric Robinson.’