Rugby league great Paul Langmack dies aged 61

Paul Langmack, a triple premiership winner with the Canterbury Bulldogs, has passed away at the age of 61. Throughout his illustrious career, Langmack played over 300 first-grade matches and represented NSW in four State of Origin games. He went on to become the head coach of South Sydney in the 2003 and 2004 seasons.

Langmack began his professional career with the Canterbury Bulldogs, where he enjoyed three premiership victories in 1984, 1985, and 1988. He later moved to Western Suburbs and Sydney, contributing to the club's success alongside a teammate from his early days at Canterbury. After retiring from playing, Langmack transitioned to coaching, serving as an assistant coach at Wests Tigers before taking up the head coaching position at South Sydney in 2003 and 2004.

The rugby league community mourns the loss of a larger-than-life character, as described by former teammate and commentator Phil Gould. Gould lauded Langmack's energy, bubbly personality, and enthusiasm, emphasizing his unwavering loyalty to teammates and former coaches. Langmack also initiated several mental health support programs to assist young kids and fellow players, demonstrating his profound compassion for others.

Langmack's 174-game tenure with the Bulldogs in the 1980s is marked by their remarkable premiership triumphs in 1984, 1985, and 1988. Over his illustrious career, he accumulated 314 first-grade matches across Australia, as well as 19 matches for Halifax in England. Langmack was also part of Australia's 1986 tour of Great Britain and France, participating in 10 matches but not earning a Test appearance. The rugby league community grapples with the significant loss of a true legend.