LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The New Zealand Warriors will be honoring their former team doctor, John Mayhew, in their upcoming NRL match against the Melbourne Storm.
Mayhew, who passed away at the age of 70, served the team for 14 seasons and played a significant role in the club's success over the years.
The Warriors will pay their respects to Mayhew by wearing black armbands during the match, as many of the current players had been treated by him during their time with the club.
Bunty Afoa, who is the longest-serving current Warrior treated by Mayhew, will be among the players honoring him on Sunday.
Other players in the lineup who had been under his care at some point include Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Adam Pompey, Chanel Harris-Tavita, Erin Clark, Marata Niukore, and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.
Mayhew's influence extended to many of the club's leading players over the years, such as Stacey Jones, Steve Price, Ruben Wiki, Manu Vatuvei, Shaun Johnson, and more.
Mayhew's impact on the Warriors was significant, as he played a role in the team's achievements, including reaching the grand final in 2011 and making the top eight in multiple seasons.
The first match that Mayhew oversaw was against the Storm in 2006, and it is fitting that the Warriors will be honoring him during a match against the same club.
Mayhew's dedication and care for the players during his time with the team have left a lasting impression on many of those who had the privilege of working with him.