Rugby league great Paul Langmack dies at 61

OPA WIRE, Nov 4 (OPA) — Former rugby league star Paul Langmack died at the age of 61 on Thursday after suffering a suspected medical episode in a sauna at the Breakfast Point Country Club following his daily workout. Emergency responders were unable to revive the former player, prompting an immediate outpouring of grief from across the Australian sporting community.

Sydney's 2GB radio host Mark Levy first announced the passing, remembering Langmack as a larger-than-life character who was deeply dedicated to the sport and his peers. Bulldogs general manager of football Phil Gould and NRL great Darryl Brohman led the tributes, highlighting Langmack's fierce loyalty, rugby intelligence, and tireless advocacy for mental health support programs targeting young athletes.

Langmack played more than 300 first-grade games for Canterbury, Western Suburbs, and the Sydney Roosters between 1983 and 1999. A tenacious lock forward, he was a cornerstone of Canterbury's formidable 'Dogs of War' pack, securing premiership titles in 1984, 1985, and 1988, while also representing New South Wales in four matches and touring with the Australian Kangaroos in 1986.

Following his playing career, Langmack transitioned into coaching, leading South Sydney through the 2003 and 2004 seasons. Beyond the pitch, he survived a battle with lymph node cancer diagnosed in 2016 and remained active in community initiatives, leaving a lasting legacy on and off the rugby league field.