The RFL has sent its condolences to the family of Steve Prescott MBE, who has died after a long illness.
Steve, who was capped by both England and Ireland at international level and had successful spells with St Helens and Hull FC, passed away in hospital earlier today. He was 39.
RFL Chief Executive Nigel Wood said: “It is with deep sadness that we have learned of the death of Steve Prescott. Our thoughts are with his family at this terribly sad time.
“The word ‘hero’ is overused in sport but Steve was just that: a role model for every young Rugby League player during his distinguished playing career and an absolute inspiration to all of us off the field.
“Throughout his long illness Steve was never anything other than dignified, noble and brave, not least during his fantastic charity work through the Steve Prescott Foundation which raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for good causes, including the Rugby League Benevolent Fund.
“Steve touched on the lives of a great many people and enriched both Rugby League and the whole of sport with his engaging personality, unselfish efforts and his stoicism in the face of such an aggressive and cruel illness.
“We are all very fortunate to have been associated with Steve. He is going to be much missed.”
