- The former Rabbitohs star sadly passed away on Thursday morning, aged 82.
- Eric Robinson made 67 grade appearances for Souths during his career.
- He made his debut in 1961 and played for Souths for four years.
The South Sydney Rabbitohs have paid tribute to former player and life member Eric Robinson, who sadly passed away on Thursday morning, aged 82.
Robinson, who was born in Hillston, New South Wales in 1942, played 67 grade matches, including 42 first grade matches for Souths between 1960 and 1964.
The football star made his debut for the club in 1961 during the opening round of the season against Eastern Suburbs.
A Bundjalung man, his rugby league journey began when he was 15 and he made his first grade debut for Souths when he was 18.
He was known for his excellent agility, and Robinson scored 18 first grade tries for the Rabbitohs during his four seasons at the club.
Writing on X (formerly Twitter), the Rabbitohs said: “The Rabbitohs are mourning the passing of former player and life member, Eric Robinson, who died this morning, aged 82.
“On behalf of everyone associated with the Rabbitohs, we offer our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family and friends.”
Former South Sydney Rabbitohs player Eric Robinson has died at the age of 82.
Robinson made 67 grade appearances for Souths during his four years at the club.
Robinson’s son is former AFL star Ricky Walford, who played first grade rugby league for the Roosters, Bears and Dragons between 1982 and 1996.
Robinson’s family has a rich rugby league heritage, and his grandchildren also played the sport at the highest level. His grandson Nathan Merritt followed in his grandfather’s footsteps, playing for South Sydney and the Cronulla Sharks.
While his other grandchildren, Travis Robinson and his twin Reece Robinson, played professionally for top-flight clubs.
His grandfather, Eric, would leave the Rabbitohs after the 1964 season. He would enjoy spells with Maitland, Brisbane Wests and Bourke, before ending his career after a spell with the Redfern All Blacks.
In an online statement, the Rabbitohs wrote: ‘Eric was a cornerstone of the Redfern community as an honorary elder in the Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group. His enduring nickname, ‘The Legend’, not only reflects his remarkable career but also his role in paving the way for future Aboriginal sporting stars.
‘Eric Robinson’s story is not only a story of personal achievement, but also of a profound legacy that continues to inspire and shape the Australian Rugby League.
“On behalf of everyone associated with the Rabbitohs, we offer our deepest and deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr Eric Robinson.”