Two iconic Grand Final milestones will be celebrated as part of the post-match presentation following the NRL decider between Sydney Roosters and Newcastle Knights on Sunday, October 4 at Accor Stadium.
The NRL has announced that legendary St George player and Hall of Fame member Johnny King will be part of the post-match presentation on Sunday. King was a member of the great St George teams which won 11 consecutive Grand Finals between 1956 and 1966. His appearance will mark 60 years since the final St George win of the historic run of Premierships.
King, who played the final seven of St George’s record run of grand final successes, famously scored at least one try in six consecutive grand finals (1960-65). King was also sole try scorer in the iconic 1963 decider against Western Suburbs which spawned the unforgettable Gladiators photograph of rival captains Norm Provan and Arthur Summons.
He represented Australia in 15 Tests and World Cup matches, played all six Tests on the 1967–68 Kangaroo tour, and was inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame in 2008. He earned international selection in an era featuring outstanding rival wingers such as Ken Irvine and Eddie Lumsden—underlining the quality of his achievements.
The NRL also announced Eels great and Hall of Fame member Peter Sterling will present the Clive Churchill Medal – 40 years after becoming the first winner of the iconic award. Peter “Sterlo” Sterling was one of Rugby League’s greatest halfbacks and the chief organiser of Parramatta’s golden era. Playing for the Parramatta Eels from 1978 to 1992, he helped deliver four premierships — in 1981, 1982, 1983 and 1986.
He represented Australia in 18 Tests and NSW in 13 State of Origin matches, and was part of the undefeated Kangaroo tours of 1982 and 1986. His individual honours included consecutive Dally M Medals in 1986 and 1987, and the inaugural Clive Churchill Medal for his performance in the 1986 grand final.
Churchill, one of the game’s four original Immortals, passed away in 1985 and after a suggestion by leading writer Ian Heads, the Clive Churchill Medal was formally introduced to the game by NSWRL general manager John Quayle.
“Grand Final Day is a celebration of the game’s best players, the best teams, but more than that it is a celebration of the history of the game and the moments that matter,” ARLC Executive Chairman Peter V’landys AM said.
“We’re going to be privileged to have two absolute legends with us to celebrate the Grand Final.
“Sixty years on, the feats of Johny King and his teammates stand the test of time, and will likely never be beaten.
“Peter Sterling will forever be honoured as the first ever Clive Churchill Medallist. To have him on stage presenting the medal 40 years on will be one of those moments that matter.”
