LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Queensland rugby league icon Sam Backo has passed away at the age of 64, being celebrated as a remarkable player and cherished teammate.
Recently, Backo had been fighting a melioidosis infection and had suffered a heart attack two years prior. The former player represented Canberra and Brisbane during his career.
Between 1988 and 1990, Backo played seven State of Origin matches for the Maroons, leaving a significant legacy. Notably, he became the first front-rower to receive the man of the match title in two consecutive Origins, contributing to Queensland's dominant 3-0 series win during his rookie year.
Gene Miles, his teammate from the Broncos and Maroons, paid tribute, stating, "Sam was a wonderful player for Australia and Queensland, where he was always entertaining in the team bus with his dry humour." He described Backo as "an old-fashioned front-rower but very quick for his size too," emphasizing his ability to gain essential yardage with every carry.
Backo made his Queensland debut in 1988 and quickly left a significant impact, securing two consecutive man of the match awards in that series.