Cronulla prop Andrew Fifita has shown his gratitude and appreciation for former mentor Shane Flanagan, carving out sentimental words on his 2018 Dally M Prop of the Year trophy in his coach's honour.
Fifita has spent his entire Cronulla tenure under Flanagan's leadership, bar the 2014 season, until his long-time mentor was indefinitely banned by the NRL for breaching the terms of his peptides suspension in that same year.
Together, the pair helped break Cronulla's 49-year premiership drought, also enjoying six finals appearances during the club's most successful period.
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With the unemployed coach doing it tough watching on from the sidelines, Fifita reached out with a touching gesture that was shared by Flanagan's son and Sharks playmaker Kyle Flanagan on social media.
''To Flanno, thank you for bringing the best out in me on and off the field,'' the engraving on the trophy read.
''Your patience and support will never be forgotten.''
— Kyle Flanagan (@kyle_flano) March 22, 2019
After being handed his breach notice from the NRL, the premiership-winning coach said his decision to resign was “one of the toughest decisions” of his career.
"The last month has taken an enormous mental and emotional toll on my family and myself,” Flanagan said.
"...I especially want to extend my gratitude to the many players who I have been fortunate to coach at Cronulla. Without doubt, I will hold the entire 2016 playing squad, staff, supporters and unforgettable achievement to deliver the club it's first premiership, forever in my heart.''
Despite interest from rival clubs, particularly from the Eels and Roosters, Flanagan Jnr insists he is committed to the Sharks and is determined to create his own legacy.
"There was no hesitation [in re-signing with Cronulla]," Flanagan told Sporting News earlier this month.
"Obviously I want to play first grade here at the Sharks.
“There was interest out there but I want to be a good player at the Sharks and bring success to the club.”
