The NSWRL was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Kurt Drysdale, aged 31, following a battle with pneumonia.
Drysdale was a promising junior at the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks who played in the Harold Matthews Cup (Under 17s) and SG Ball Cup (Under 19s) before joining the club’s Under 20s squad for the NRL’s former National Youth Competition (NYC).
He suffered a devastating spinal injury in 2015 while playing for Cabramatta Two Blues in the Ron Massey Cup competition. Despite the obstacles he faced, Drysdale remained active and edited video for the NSWRL from their Junior Representatives and Major Competitions.
The Perry Cross Spinal Research Foundation, for whom Drysdale was a Cure Crusader Ambassador, paid tribute to him on Facebook.
“His cheeky grin and kind, caring personality brought so much joy to everyone who knew him. He will be greatly missed by all of us at the Foundation,” the post read.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Kurt’s parents, Sonya and Steve, his family, and everyone who loved him during this incredibly difficult time.
“May he rest in peace.”
Drysdale remained close with many Rugby League players from the NRL including Alex Johnston, Valentine Holmes, Shaun Lane, Brad Takairangi and Denan Kemp.
The NSWRL passes on its sincere condolences to the many family and friends of Kurt Drysdale.
