The NRL community is mourning the death of Karl Lovell, who passed away aged 48 after a battle with lung cancer.
The NRL forward previously played for the Northern Eagles, the Cronulla Sharks and the Parramatta Eels before rejoining his junior team, the Toukley Hawks.
The Toukley Hawks paid tribute to Mr Lovell in a Facebook post on Sunday, expressing the team’s sadness over the loss.
“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,” the team wrote.
The New Zealand-born forward earned respect in both Australia and England, playing 95 first-grade and Super League matches from 1997 to 2002.
Mr Lovell played 37 games for the Parramatta Eels between 1997 and 1998, and 16 for the Cronulla Sharks in 2002.
He also enjoyed stints in the English Super League with Sheffield and Huddersfield.
After retiring, Mr Lovell returned to the Hawks to become a mentor to younger players.
“He helped mentor several emerging players at the Hawks and won the Central Coasts’ representative player of the year award in 2008,” the club said.
The Hawks recognised Mr Lovell’s character as one showing courage and determination, noting his “lovable character”.
“Far more important than his on-field feats, Karl was a loveable character that endeared all who knew him,” the club wrote.
“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.”
The Hawks closed its remembrance of Mr Lovell by extending condolences to his family.
“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 club said.