The NSW Rugby League this week paid special tribute to Steve Hall, affectionately known as ‘Bear’, who retired after a career spanning 26 years in coaching, development and mentoring roles with NSWRL, Western Suburbs and the Wests Tigers.
NSWRL colleagues gathered at a function to celebrate and acknowledge Hall’s tireless work, in particular with mentoring and developing young Indigenous players, which followed a long and respected playing career throughout the western region of NSW.
Hall was born in Walgett, and played for the Walgett Dragons, before turning out for the Coonamble Bears, Dubbo Macquarie Raiders, the Mendooran Tigers, and finally finished his career as captain-coach of Dubbo CYMS.
He was appointed as the original Coaching and Development Officer in Dubbo, with NSWRL in 1992. After moving to Sydney, he undertook coaching and development roles through the NSWRL Academy, including that of the Indigenous Rugby League Development officer.
He was instrumental in the commencement of the under-16 Indigenous program in 2003 and was the original NSW team manager. He continues to undertake his passion in assisting young indigenous boys and girls become involved in Rugby League and remains a driving force behind the annual Ricky Walford Shield.
Bear remains a passionate Wests Tigers fan and has also acted as operations assistant for the club for many years.
