sidelined

“Ding dong, the witch is dead.” Uttered by Jack Gibson after Parramatta won their first grand final in 1981. A phrase Eels’ fans will forever associate with the great coach who passed away earlier this evening.

As much as he is revered by the Eels faithful, he was a true legend of the game in his service as a coach over the years. His decline wasn’t a secret as was revealed in this great story in the SMH last month.

But he didn’t want anyone to feel sorry for him as he had a grand life. One of the game’s greatest minds and also one of the greatest servants. His legacy will live on and will always have a special place in the heart of Eels fans, especially those that remember the glory years of 80s.

Good on ya Jack.