Rugby League community in mourning following death of Matt Callander
The Rugby League community is in mourning today following the tragic passing of Matt Callander.
The former Channel 9 NRL boss passed away on the weekend after a battle with brain cancer.
Callander, 46, helped raise over $1.7 million for cancer research after joining forces with Mark Hughes for the NRL’s ‘Beanie for Brain Cancer’ round earlier this year.
The NRL described the much-loved father-of-four as a ‘champion’.
Sad news, the Rugby League world has lost a champion in Matt Callander who leaves a lasting legacy in Beanie for Brain Cancer Round.#NRL pic.twitter.com/4JFBhe33ZZ
— NRL (@NRL) October 29, 2017
“The Rugby League world has lost a champion in Matt Callander, who leaves a lasting legacy in Beanie for Brain Cancer Round,” the league said.
“Mr Callander was a much-loved and respected member of the rugby league community, having been a crucial part of Channel Nine’s NRL coverage for two decades.”
NRL Chief Executive Todd Greenberg paid tribute to Mr Callander, saying Matt’s brave and selfless example to put others before himself in the quest to save more people from brain cancer in the future, would not be forgotten.
“Matt was a truly remarkable human, who loved his family, his friends and his footy,” Mr Greenberg said.
“I was fortunate enough to call him a friend and I know how hard he fought to hang in there for as long as he could.
“We are poorer for his passing, but we are grateful that he was part of our rugby league family for so many years.
“His legacy will live on in our game and we will continue to be there for his family and for his cause.”
Life is so cruel. Rest in Peace Matt Callander. Great bloke. Great family. Great mate to so many. @Channel9 @wwos
— Andrew Voss (@AndrewVossy) October 29, 2017
Very sad news this morning with the passing of our friend Matt Callander. ❤ #9NRLFootyShow pic.twitter.com/Y7eMl7zzC7
— The NRL Footy Show (@NRLFootyShow) October 29, 2017
The NSWRL sends its deepest condolences to the loved ones of @Channel9 Executive Producer Matt Callander. pic.twitter.com/4F7FmjXohm
— NSW Rugby League ? (@NSWRL) October 29, 2017