Rob Burrow’s Legacy Lives On as Leeds Rhinos Take on Hull FC
(1st March 2023 – Sky Sports Rugby League)
Rugby league legend Rob Burrow will forever be remembered as an icon of the sport. As Leeds Rhinos prepare to face Hull FC, we take a nostalgic look back at the team from Burrow’s debut against the Airlie Birds in 2001.
The diminutive number 29 came off the bench that day to make his first senior appearance for the Rhinos, marking the start of a remarkable career that saw Burrow become one of the most decorated players in rugby league history. Alongside club captain Kevin Sinfield, he was a core part of the Rhinos’ ‘golden generation’ that dominated the Super League.
What Became of the 2001 Matchday Squad?
Over 20 years have passed since Burrow’s debut, but what became of the rest of that matchday squad? From Australian greats to local heroes, the players have gone on to carve out diverse post-rugby careers.
- Brett Mullins, the Australian fullback, won three NRL titles before a brief spell with Leeds in 2001. Now he co-owns a hotel in his hometown of Newcastle.
- Mark Calderwood, the winger who helped Leeds win a Grand Final and World Club Challenge, later played for England and now works in the amateur game.
- Andy Kirk, the centre who had stints at several clubs, has found a new calling in sports therapy and public speaking.
- Chev Walker, a Leeds stalwart, is now part of the club’s coaching staff and training to become a butcher.
- Francis Cummins, a Headingley hero, is the Head of Emerging Talent at Hull FC.
“The backbone of that Leeds team, Kevin Sinfield, has enjoyed a successful transition to rugby union, joining Steve Borthwick’s England coaching staff after guiding Leicester Tigers to the Premiership title. Alongside Burrow, he has also been a driving force in raising over £20 million for MND charities, earning both an MBE and CBE.”
As the current Rhinos side prepare to face Hull FC, the legacy of Rob Burrow and that iconic class of 2001 lives on, inspiring a new generation of rugby league enthusiasts.
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