Dolphins urged to do it for Artie against Roosters
THE son of Queensland legend Arthur Beetson has urged the Dolphins to uphold the spirit of “Artie” when they enter the NRL this weekend.
Brad Beetson spoke passionately about his late father in the lead up to Sunday’s historic Dolphins-roosters clash at Suncorp Stadium.
Arthur “Artie” Beetson is a rugby league Immortal and legend of the Redcliffe Dolphins and Eastern Suburbs Roosters, having played for and coached both clubs.
A 29-Test Kangaroos representative, Beetson was the first captain of Queensland’s
State of Origin team in 1980 and is regarded as one of the most revered figures in the game’s history.
It was Beetson’s dream to see his beloved Dolphins and Roosters play each other in Australian’s top competition –
and that will come to life at a packed Suncorp on Sunday afternoon.
But Beetson will not be there to see it after dying suddenly following a heart attack in December, 2011, aged 66.
In honour of Beetson, the
Dolphins have created the Artie Legacy Medal, which will be awarded to the best player on the field in every DolphinsRoosters NRL game. About 40 of Beetson’s family members will be at Suncorp on Sunday.
“It’s a great honour for the family and continuation of dad’s legacy, of which so much was formed here at Lang Park,” Brad Beetson said.
“It was his dream to one day see Redcliffe and the Roosters play each other. He had a great affiliation with both clubs.
“I know dad would be looking down, probably playing cards with Tommy (Raudonikis), and being pretty chuffed it’s come to fruition.”