Gold Coast Titans founding father Paul Broughton OAM is being remembered as one of Rugby League’s greatest statesmen, visionaries and contributors following his death at the age of 91.
Broughton, who lived on the Gold Coast, passed away on Saturday evening.
Tributes for the rugby league legend have since flooded social media, with fellow stars, staff and fans remembering the much loved player, coach and administrator.
Titans Chairman Dennis Watt said Mr Broughton made a huge impact, not just on the Gold Coast, but right across the game.
“Whether as a player, coach, administrator or mentor, Paul has left an indelible mark on our code and the people privileged to have been caught up in his unrelenting passion for “the greatest game of all,” Watt said.
“Paul’s connection with the Gold Coast and northern New South Wales goes back over 60 years, beginning as captain coach at Murwillumbah Brothers in 1958.
“After a stellar career in Sydney in coaching, he played a pivotal role in the Gold Coast Titans being admitted to the NRL for season 2007, becoming the club’s inaugural chairman.
“In honour of his role as a founding father of the Titans, the club awards the Paul Broughton Medal each year to its best and fairest player.
“As always, Paul spoke eloquently and demonstrated his great love for the club in awarding the 2022 Medal to our inspirational captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui at the club’s awards night in October.
“Paul has been a regular source of support for the club, always reaching out to acknowledge the hard work and sacrifices so necessary for success. “And for myself as chairman, there was always a kind word or note whenever the going was toughest.
Watt said Mr Broughton will be sorely missed but will never be forgotten at the Gold Coast Titans.
“Ever dignified and humble, Paul’s presence, always reminded us that we should never forget those who dug the well,” he said.
Remembering a giant. The Gold Coast Titans pay tribute to our founding chairman, Paul Broughton OAM, who passed away overnight. pic.twitter.com/2IBbGeIi2v
— Gold Coast Titans (@GCTitans) December 4, 2022
Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V’landys also paid tribute, describing Broughton as a “leader and gentleman” to whom the game owed a huge debt.
“Paul was innovative and influential,” Mr V’landys said.
“His passion for rugby league was clear to all who knew him. He wanted desperately for the game to prosper and he worked tirelessly in order to make it happen.
“His efforts particularly to further the sport on the Gold Coast were tireless and nothing short of extraordinary.
“He was the founding chairman of the Titans and his name is deservedly attached to the club’s annual best and fairest medal.
“He will be remembered as an enormously influential figure for rugby league on the Gold Coast, but his impact went so far beyond that.”
