Rugby league great Paul Langmack has died of a heart attack aged 61.
The three-time premiership winner and member of the 300-game club had a decorated career with Canterbury, Western Suburbs and the Roosters before he transitioned into coaching where he led the Rabbitohs for two seasons.
Langmack was a key member of Canterbury’s feared pack in the 1980s, the famed ‘Dogs of War’, and did a mountain of community work after his rugby league career ended.
Clubs across the league posted tributes for one of the sport’s greatest characters, with Canberra coach Ricky Stuart leading a minute’s silence at training.
“He was a real legend of the game,” Stuart said.“He played at three different clubs, he played over 300 games.”
“He had a heart attack this morning when he was at the gym at 8.20am and died.
“From a respect point of view, from our club to the Canterbury club and Western Suburbs where he played, and to the Langmack family, I just think we can show our respects with a minute’s silence.”
The biggest figure in rugby league also paid tribute to Langmack and his legacy in the game.
“Paul was a larger-than-life character,” Australian Rugby League Commission executive chairman Peter V’landys said.
“You always knew ‘Langers’ was in the room. He was incredibly funny, hugely popular and passionate.
“As a player he was tough, but he had the skills as well. And he loved the game so much he just wanted to be involved in it, whether it be playing, coaching or, in recent years, working with the NSWRL in their community and mental health programs. He always wanted to help people.
“On behalf of the Commission, I extend our condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew him.”
The brilliant ball-playing forward won a title in just his second season with the Bulldogs in 1984 before going on to win another two grand finals in 1985 and 1988.
Langmack played 314 first-grade matches, four Origins and represented Australia 10 times.
Tributes have flowed for a man who worked tirelessly in the mental health space.
“He just loved life … he was just an outstanding footballer, a great friend and very loyal,” former Bulldogs teammate Darryl Brohman told 2GB’s Mark Levy.
“It’s just a massive loss to the rugby league community and the Bulldogs particularly.”
The Bulldogs released an emotional statement on Thursday morning, with Langmack awarded life membership of the club in 2011 for his contributions as a player and ambassador.
He played 174 games across eight seasons for the team and was described as a “club great and a catalyst for success throughout the 1980s era”.
“I am devastated to learn of Paul’s sudden passing this morning,” former teammate and Bulldogs’ general manager of football Phil Gould said.
“Paul would contact me every day of the week about something to do with rugby league. I’m going to miss those calls and messages.
“I’m particularly devastated for his sister Diane, who has been my personal assistant for the past 15 years.
“Paul worked with the NSWRL for many years supporting the game. In recent times he volunteered his time to so many Bulldogs community initiatives.
“He was a larger-than-life character. Paul was energetic, bubbly and enthusiastic. He loved his rugby league. He was so loyal to his many teammates and ex coaches over the years. He loved them all.
“Paul also started many mental health support programs to help young kids, plus both current and former players. He was always thinking of other people. This is a significant loss to so many.
“A true Bulldog.”
Originally published as Some of rugby league’s biggest names have paid tribute to Paul Langmack who has died suddenly