Pride of Australia nomination for dedication to junior rugby league

When the NSW Blues lost their third match Barry Hanley messaged Laurie Daley to make sure he was ready for his next test, the North Sydney Brothers under-12 match.

Barry Hanley of Rydalmere at Tunks Park, Cammeray. Barry is president of North Sydney Brothers Rugby League Club and has been part of the club since 1978, coaching juniors and on the club committee. Pride of Australia Nominee. Picture: John Appleyard

When the NSW Blues lost their third match Barry Hanley messaged Laurie Daley to make sure he was ready for his next test, the North Sydney Brothers under-12 match.

“I texted Laurie after the game and said: ‘Sorry mate, they were too good. But let’s win the under-12s final’.”

For Mr Hanley the results of the junior rugby league matches mean almost as much as the State of Origin and he has given 41 years of his life to ensure the game he loves stays strong at the grassroots level.

Mr Hanley has been nominated for the Daily and Sunday Telegraph Pride of Australian Medal for 2014 for his dedication to junior rugby league.

Mr Hanley is involved in every facet of the sport and his dedication goes beyond just turning up.

Everything from coaching, training and running the canteen and barbecue is done by Mr Hanley, or some helpers from his family, and every, footy-season weekend for the last 41 years has been all about league

“I just love seeing the kids play football,” he said.

“I get on the field with the under-7s and coach them every Tuesday. I’m 68 in November and still run around with the kids. I’ll keep doing it as long as I can.”

To nominate for the Pride of Australia, visit prideofaustralia.com.au