Tearful scenes as Souths, Broncos celebrate Arrow
George Clarke |
Jai Arrow has been moved to tears as the retired forward received a standing ovation from fans of South Sydney and Brisbane who joined together to celebrate his decorated career.
Arrow, a 30-year-old father of one known for his larger-than-life personality, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) last month.
Thursday’s game at Accor Stadium between the Rabbitohs – the club where Arrow’s career ended last month – and the Broncos – where the forward made his NRL debut in 2016 – represented the first opportunity for fans of both clubs to thank the 12-time Queensland forward.
Souths players wore a special white playing strip with ‘Arrow’ on the back, while the popular forward was named on their team list in jersey No.23.
Brisbane’s jumper had Arrow’s club heritage number #222 emblazoned onto it.
Players from both sides formed a guard of honour for Arrow, holding daughter Ayla, and partner Berina as they walked onto the field.
Arrow had been invited by the Rabbitohs to ring Souths’ Legacy Bell, but was overcome with emotion as fans around the stadium stood and applauded.
He eventually obliged and was then mobbed by players from both clubs before kick-off.
Brisbane staffers handed Arrow a Broncos jersey as fans around the ground held up given placards with the forward’s face.
South Sydney’s supporters’ group The Burrow unveiled a banner thanking the lovable forward for his years of service.
“I’ve been in this game since I was a little boy and they, the fans, never fail to amaze me how they get behind someone who’s having a tough time,” Souths coach Wayne Bennett told Fox Sports prior to kick-off.
“I’m always proud of this game that I’ve been involved with all my life and those people make me proud of how they can find time and give so much … the outpouring has been wonderful.
“I coached him (Arrow) from the time he came into first grade at the Broncos, I always loved the way he would never give up and keeps at it.
“In terms of speed, footwork – probably none of those are in his playbook, but his attitude of doing your best and not letting your teammates down was always there.
“Last year we had a really tough year here and he won player of the year because every week he turned up at his best and that’s Jai Arrow.”
Arrow, who also played for the Gold Coast Titans as well, has recently spent time overseas seeking treatment for MND.
Souths announced proceeds from their commemorative white jersey would go towards supporting Arrow and his family.
AAP