The NSWRL was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of True Blue Laurie Wakefield.
Wakefield was signed as a 22-year-old from Parkes by the Parramatta Eels in 1970. A talented fullback who was small in stature but always played well above his weight, Wakefield had already played for NSW and Country when he caught the attention of the Eels.
He started at fullback for the opening game of the 1970 series against Queensland which saw NSW just miss out 16-15. He was named on the bench for the second match of the four-game series and came on to replace John Brass after he sustained a neck injury with NSW going on to win 22-8.
Wakefield played 14 games for the Eels from 1970-72 and was considered unlucky not to play more but was up against champion fullback Ken Thornett, who returned to play for the Eels in the 1971 season.
“He played for NSW, played for Country and represented at hockey as well,” NSWRL director Bob Walsh said.
“He was very tough, he was only a short, nuggety type of player but was big on heart.
“He was a good bloke who returned to help out at Parkes once he finished playing.”
The NSWRL passes its sincere condolences on to Wakefield’s family and friends.
