Memories of a rugby player
A legend behind the game of Queensland Rugby League, who resides in Nundah, has shared his special sporting memories like it only happened yesterday. Zion Lutheran Home resident, Darryl Gatley, 72, was the first trainer for the Queensland Rugby League State of Origin team.
A legend behind the game of Queensland Rugby League, who resides in Nundah, has shared his special sporting memories like it only happened yesterday.
Zion Lutheran Home resident, Darryl Gatley, 72, was the first trainer for the Queensland Rugby League State of Origin team.
He started playing Rugby League at the age of nine in Bundaberg and moved to Brisbane in 1972 – and never looked back after commencing his role training the Queensland team in 1980.
What followed was a whirlwind tour of the world alongside players like Gene Miles, Wally Lewis and Mal Meninga.
“I travelled to England with the team, New Zealand, France and Papua New Guinea,” he said.
“Artie Beetson was the best coach and player I have ever seen. Wally Lewis was also a good player.”
Mentored by sports medicine pioneer, Dr Kevin Hobbs, Mr Gatley also helped promote the use of modern injury treatments in Rugby League.
“When I was a coach I had two of my players injured at the time,” he said. “I said [to Dr Hobbs] if you can get them right for me for the final I will join Sports Medicine [Australia].”
Mr Gatley added in the early days some of the treatments included using hot bricks to treat on-field injuries. He broke new ground for treatments such as applying ice to injuries.
His career in sports medicine led him to work as a lecturer and trainer at Armidale University, and he still regularly attends matches and catches up with old mates.
“Football is in your blood. I love the friends I met. No one forgets you when you play league.”
Mr WGtley was involved with the league for 40 years and stopped looking after professional players in 1996.
“Life is great. I’ve met new friends and there is always something to get involved in.
“Older Australians are a very important part of the community. We have a lot of knowledge to share but there’s still a lot to learn.”
Zion Lutheran Home general manager, Maria Mulheran, said it was important residents celebrated their life achievements.
“It is great to see [Mr Gatley] still enjoying his football and keeping in contact with his footy mates,” she said.
