The New South Wales Rugby League was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jack Danzey, aged 81.
Danzey’s father, Jack Danzey Snr, was also former first grade player who played alongside Frank Hyde at Newtown in the 1930s. Jack Junior learned his football at De La Salle, Marrickville, and graduated to the Bluebags’ graded ranks in 1959 where he played for the third grade Grand Final team.
After spending a year in the bush at Narrandera in 1961 he joined Balmain and spent four years with the Tigers highlighted by a first grade Grand Final appearance in 1964 and a reserve grade premiership in 1965. In 1966 he joined the infant Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks club and helped them get on their feet in their first two seasons in first grade.
After retiring as a player, he became a graded referee and developed into one of the best of his era. Over 11 seasons he controlled 178 first grade matches before a heart attack ended his career prematurely. He was widely respected across the game as an official and was considered unlucky not to have controlled at least one first grade Grand Final.
Following his retirement, he remained involved with officials after holding down the position of Referees Coordinator with the NSWRL.
In his working life, Danzey was a high school teacher who was much loved during long stints at Dulwich Hill High and Burwood Girls High.
The NSWRL extends its sincere condolences to his family and friends.
