Tributes are flooding in from around the NRL world after the tragic death of former Parramatta and Cronulla player Karl Lovell at 48. Lovell was diagnosed with lung cancer late last year, and news emerged on Sunday that he’d passed away.
Lovell played 37 games for the Parramatta Eels in 1997 and 1998, and 16 for the Sharks in 2002. He played two games for the Northern Eagles in 2001, which came after stints with Sheffield and Huddersfield in the English Super League.
Karl Lovell played for Parramatta and Cronulla in the NRL. Image: Getty
The hard-working forward was part of the Parramatta team that made the preliminary final in 1998 before losing to the Bulldogs. He suffered the same fate in 2002 when the Sharks lost to the Warriors in the grand final qualifier, which ended up being his last NRL game.
Karl Lovell (L) and Jason Stevens after the preliminary final in 2002.
NRL world saddened after death of Karl Lovell
He then returned to play for his junior club the Toukley Hawks on the NSW Central Coast. The club wrote on social media on Sunday: “The Toukley Hawks community are deeply saddened to hear that one of our own, Karl Lovell passed away yesterday, after a brave battle with cancer in recent times.
“He helped mentor several emerging players at the Hawks and won the Central Coasts’ representative player of the year award in 2008. Far more important than his on-field feats, Karl was a loveable character that endeared all who knew him. The courage and determination he displayed throughout his rugby league journey, inspired many younger Hawks and left a legacy that continues to shine today.
“Just as Karl was proud of his beloved Hawks, everyone who knew him was inspired by the strength, courage, and resilience he displayed throughout his battle with illness. On behalf of all at the Hawks, we send our thoughts and love to his wife Megan and his girls, parents Lorraine and Wes and sister Natasha and her family at this very sad time. Rest in Peace Karl.”
The ‘Parra Cave Podcast’ account wrote: “Condolences to Karl’s family and friends and former teammates. May you rest in peace.” While Rugby League Central Coast added: “Our sincere condolences go to Karl’s family, friends and all who knew him throughout the wider rugby league community.”