LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Mal Meninga has been appointed as the Patron of the 'Family of League' foundation, an organization dedicated to providing financial, social, and emotional support to members of the rugby league community in need.
Previously known as 'Men of League,' the foundation plays a key role in helping retired and former players stay connected to the sport.
Meninga joins 14th Immortal Ron Coote, who is a co-founder and Honorary President of the organization, as one of its most senior ambassadors.
Meninga succeeds the late John Fahey, who served as Patron since the establishment of Men of League in 2002 until his passing in 2020.
In a statement, Meninga expressed pride in his new role, saying, "I have followed the work of Family of League from their early days as Men of League.
There is no doubt that they are an incredible charity focused solely on the rugby league family and for 23 years they have been shoulder to shoulder with men, women and children as they face a range of battles.
It is a great honour to be invited to be Patron and I look forward to doing what I can to make sure their fantastic work continues long into the future."
Helen Wood Grant, Chair of Family of League, praised Meninga's appointment, stating, "It is with immense pride that we welcome Mal Meninga as the Patron.
He is a giant in the rugby league landscape, with honours and achievements that place him as one of the true heroes of the game, on and off the field.
His values of teamwork and commitment have always stayed firm when playing or coaching, leading to confidence in his support and loyalty for his teams, especially through the challenging periods.
Those values are shared by Family of League as we ensure that the rugby league community is valued and supported through good times and bad, providing certainty and leaving no-one behind."