Leeds will pause their search for a new head coach to honor the “remarkable” Rob Burrow during Friday night’s Betfred Super League match against Leigh.
One of the largest Headingley crowds in recent years will witness a series of tributes to their legendary number seven, who passed away earlier this month after a courageous fight with Motor Neurone Disease. The date coincidentally aligns with Global MND Awareness Day.
Burrow’s family will be present, and Leeds will don a specially-designed kit for their first match without Rohan Smith, who departed by mutual consent on Wednesday following a disappointing 18-10 loss to Hull FC.
Tributes will be paid to Leeds great Rob Burrow on Friday (Richard Sellers/PA)
Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington said: “The game is significant in itself, but the occasion is about bringing together what will be nearly a full crowd to pay respects to Rob Burrow and his contributions to rugby league and MND.
“I’ve spoken many times with Rob’s father, Geoff, who recalls bringing Rob to his first game at around five years old, which was Leeds versus Leigh at Headingley.
“His battle with MND has been extraordinary, uniting the rugby league community. Tomorrow’s game is a chance for everyone to honor an iconic player and person.”
Hetherington mentioned that the timing of Smith’s departure was chosen to avoid introducing external distractions on this unique occasion, amid growing calls from fans for Smith’s dismissal in recent weeks.
“The conversations were very amicable, open, and honest, leading to an outcome that isn’t always achieved in delicate discussions,” added Hetherington.
“I commend Rohan for his integrity and concern for the club’s welfare, especially considering the Rob Burrow tribute, which speaks volumes about his character.”
The special kit, designed by Cath Muir, who was diagnosed with MND in 2014, features an image of Burrow with his friend Kevin Sinfield. A portion of the profits from each shirt sold will go to the Leeds Hospitals Charity appeal to build the Rob Burrow Centre for MND.
Several former teammates will attend, including Danny Buderus, now the general manager of football for Newcastle Knights in Australia’s NRL, who flew in on Wednesday and will return to Australia on Saturday, along with Ali Lauitiiti and Andrew Dunemann.
Leeds will be led by interim coaches Chev Walker, a teammate of Burrow’s in the 2004 Grand Final victory that started a decade of Rhinos dominance, and Scott Grix. Ian Blease will oversee his first match as sporting director, having started on Monday.
