[ad_1]
FAKE IMAGES
Mitch Cronin never gave up hope of making his NRL debut.
Queensland Cup Grand Final captain Mitch Cronin died in what was described as a training accident, after family members found him face down in the Brisbane backyard pool on Friday.
The 27-year-old went through both Brisbane and Canberra without making his NRL debut, before driving Wynnum Manly Seagulls to the Queensland Cup final last year.
Cronin played twice for the Auckland Nines, first for the Raiders and then for the Broncos. Injuries hampered his progression to play an NRL game, but he had not given up on the dream and was working hard to achieve it.
READ MORE
* Warriors established for the remote NSW base
* Superstar NRL signings ‘not realistic’
* Burgess reflects on the final big injury
The Cronin manager confirmed his death to NewsCorp, describing him as an outstanding young man, while his current and former teammates have also posted tributes on social media.
David Joseph / Phototek.nz
Mitch Cronin played alongside Adam Blair for the Broncos at the Auckland Nines 2017.
Former Raider and Kiwis star Jordan Rapana wrote: “Man, I still don’t want to believe it! You put me through some of the most difficult times of my life! I love you my brother, fly high, your absolute legend, I love forever brother! Okioki teina … QUEENSLANDER !!!! “
“My partner who became my best friend. I will miss you so much Cro. I love you partner,” said Pat Templeman of the Seagulls.
“I wish I had the right words, but I don’t have them. I wish I could go out with you one more time, but I can’t. I wish I could have one more beer with you, but most of all, I wish you were still here. I love you brother,” wrote the former seagull Daniel Ogden.
Las Gaviotas issued a statement on Saturday to offer their condolences to the family of their club captain.
“We are devastated by the passing of our Captain Mitch Cronin and send love to Chris, Andrea, Ben, Amy and the Cronin family,” said Gulls CEO Hanan Laban.
“Mitch was an exceptional young man who was loved and respected by his teammates, coaching staff, our supporters, and the broader community in the rugby league.”
“From the moment he arrived at Wynnum, he embodied the values of the Seagulls through his positive attitude, his strong work ethic and his deep care for his teammates and his club.”
“He was a fantastic leader who was genuine, caring, and selfless in his actions.
“Mitch was a quiet achiever with a humble nature, who did not need to say too much to be held with enormous respect by his peers.
“He was brave on the field, but kind and modest, Mitch is always in our hearts.”
