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The Parramatta Eels mourn the loss of club legend Ron Lynch.
Affectionately known as “Thirsty”, Lynch died in a Sydney hospital on Sunday after a long illness. He was 84.
Lynch had a brilliant career with the Eels spanning a decade in the 1960s, while also playing two seasons with Penrith
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The towering hunk joined the Eels in 1961 and made an instant impact on the club.
He achieved his first cap for Australia that year and was appointed Parramatta captain the following season.
He amassed 194 appearances for the club, including one season as captain-coach.
Moving to Penrith for the 1972 NSWRFL season, Lynch captained the club for 44 matches over two seasons before retiring.
Lynch became a life member of the Eels in 1970 and was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame in 2003.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, we send our deepest condolences to Ron’s friends and family at this difficult time,” the club wrote after a heartfelt tribute chronicling his career.
Tributes poured in for the much-loved great.
“The NSWRL is deeply saddened by the passing today of Ron Lynch,” the NSW Rugby League said.
“The RLPA sends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ron Lynch. Playing primarily as a forward, Ron played an incredible 238 games over 13 seasons for Parramatta and Penrith and also represented New Wales and Australia. Vail, Ron Lynch,” the RLPA said.
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