The nib Newcastle Knights are in mourning following the passing of Leigh Maughan OAM.
Maughan was one of the driving forces – alongside Michael Hill and the late Gerry Edser – behind the Knights formation and entry into the NSW Rugby League competition in 1988.
A lifelong lover of Rugby League, Maughan was well-known in business and in sporting circles as a player, referee and Newcastle Rugby League board member. However he was perhaps best known for his commentary, first on Newcastle radio station 2NX and later at NBN Television.
Maughan’s vision – that Newcastle deserved a place in the elite Sydney competition – sparked in the mid-1970’s and his partnership with Hill and Edser started a decade-long crusade that ultimately led to the Knights creation and admission into the 1988 competition.
He would go on to work for the Club as well as serving two stints on the Knights Board of Directors, contributing a total of 21 years’ service in the role.
A Knights Life Member, he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2020 for his service to Rugby League in the city and region.
His passing overnight followed a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
“Leigh leaves an indelible mark on our city, our Club, and on Rugby League,” nib Newcastle Knights and Wests Group Australia Chief Executive Officer Mr. Philip Gardner said.
“His place in history as a founding father of the Knights is secure and we will always be thankful for everything he did in creating the Club.
“He was a regular face at games until relatively recently and his passion never wavered.
“In Leigh’s honour, we will wear black armbands next Thursday against Canberra as a show of our deep respect.
“May he rest in peace.”
The Knights send their condolences to Leigh’s family and many friends.
