Tributes flow following passing of much-loved rugby league figure Peter Mulholland

Tom Naghten

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Tributes flow following passing of much-loved rugby league figure Peter Mulholland image

The rugby league world has paid tribute to long-time recruiter and coach Peter Mulholland.

The 68-year-old passed away on Thursday following a long battle with cancer.

Mulholland was serving as recruitment and high performance director the Raiders, having guided the club back to premiership contention following his arrival in 2015.

Prior to his time in Canberra, he'd held a variety of positions across a decorated career in rugby league.

ARL Commission boss Peter V'landys said the game has lost a "great man."

“The whole game was saddened to hear of Peter’s passing yesterday. He was a great contributor to rugby league and was held in the highest regard by his peers," V'landys said.

“Peter helped discover and mould the careers of some of our best players. Few had an eye for talent and an ability to nurture and develop players like Peter did.

“On behalf of the game, I send my condolences to his family and all players and clubs who are better today for Peter’s influence. The game has lost a great man.”

Mulholland was the inaugural coach of the Western Reds, while he held roles in recruitment, player development and coaching with Canterbury, Penrith, Newcastle, the Dragons and Canberra.

Raiders CEO Don Furner said the club would be forever indebted to Mulholland.

“The game has lost one of its greatest characters and we send our deepest sympathies to his Wife Mel, his sons Heath and Ned and the entire Mulholland family at this very sad time,” Furner said.

“Peter Mulholland was one of the most loved and respected people in rugby league and there will be many wonderful stories and memories shared about him over the coming weeks. He was instrumental in turning around our clubs’ fortunes and helping us make the grand final with some of his astute and targeted recruitment.”

“Pete’s love of rugby league and his passion for what he did is what made him such a unique and respected person in our game, and I know we will all be poorer for his passing.

“His time at the Raiders only makes up a very small portion of his rugby league career, but we will be forever indebted to what he brought to our club and what he was able to help us achieve during this time.”

“On behalf of all Raiders staff, players, coaches, families, members and fans we once again pass on our condolences to the Mulholland family and let them know he will never be forgotten by the Canberra Raiders.”

Many key rugby league figures paid tribute to Mulholland following the news of his passing.

Tom Naghten

Tom Naghten Photo

Tom Naghten is a senior editor at The Sporting News Australia where he's been part of the team since 2017. He predominantly covers boxing and MMA. In his spare time, he likes to watch Robbie Ahmat's goal against the Kangaroos at the SCG in 2000.