The Australian rugby league community is mourning the loss of Terry Hill who has reportedly died of a heart attack in the Phillipines aged 52.
Hill was married to a Philippine local and spent time in both countries. A former teammate Craig Coleman told the Daily Telegraph that he was “loved by everyone. He was a good-hearted bloke.”
Meanwhile, the CEO of his former club Manly, Tony Mestrov said, “Terry is a legend of the Manly club and will be sadly missed by the club and our fans.”
Hill had a successful career in the National Rugby League (NRL) in Australia. He was known for his powerful runs, strong defence, and versatility on the field.
He played for several NRL teams during his career, including the South Sydney Rabbitohs, the Western Suburbs Magpies, the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, and the Wests Tigers.
Beginning his NRL career in 1990, Hill ended up playing 246 first-grade games, initially with the South Sydney Rabbitohs before moving to the Western Suburbs Magpies in 1993.
He then joined the Manly-Warringah in 1996, where he had some of his most successful years. Hill was a key player for the Sea Eagles, helping them win the NRL Premiership in 1996 and 2008.
His representative career began in 1993 when he was selected for the New South Wales (NSW) State of Origin side, which he eventually played for on 14 occasions up until 2000.
He was selected on the 1994 kangaroo tour of Great Britain and ended up appearing nine times for his country.
Known for his tough and aggressive style of play, Hill was a fan favourite and a respected figure in the NRL. He was also a versatile player, capable of playing in multiple positions, including centre, second-row, and lock.
Post-Career Activities
After retiring from professional rugby league, Hill remained involved in the sport, working as a commentator and analyst for various media outlets. He has also been involved in coaching and mentoring young players, helping to develop the next generation of rugby league stars.Off the field, Hill had been involved in various charitable endeavours, supporting causes such as children’s health and indigenous education. He was also a proud advocate for rugby league and has been vocal about the importance of the sport in promoting health and fitness in communities.
He also became a cult figure thanks to his appearances on Channel 9’s Footy Show where his lovable larrikin image resonated with viewers.
“Terry was a tremendous competitor and one of the best sledgers ever in the game,” former Manly player and official Peter Peters said.
“But it never deterred from the standard he reached in just about every game he played.”
Former player turned radio broadcaster Darryl Brohman posted on social media that, “Terry was a larrikin but deep-down a good guy.”
Just last week, Hill was in the Phillipines with friend and former NRL Player David “Cement” Gillespie doing a promotion that raised $26,000 for a local orphanage.
“I was with Terry only last week,” Gillespie said. “He was [his] usual self, the life of the party.
“Terry was fine and had everyone in stitches at the fundraiser. His death is sudden, unexpected and incredibly sad. He was a very generous person. As a player, Terry was relentless, tough and uncompromising. He would give it and take it.”
