The Sharks mourn the passing and offer their condolences to family, friends and former teammates of Alan McRitchie, a member of the inaugural Cronulla team to compete in the NSW Rugby League First Grade competition back in 1967.
Shark #10, McRitchie died peacefully in the Sunshine Coast University Hospital on August 3 after a long illness. He was 83.
A tough front rower, McRitchie began his first-grade career with St George in 1964, appearing in 11 top-grade games over three seasons during the Dragons' historic 11-year premiership reign. He was also a member of the premiership-winning Reserve Grade team of 1964.
In 1967, he signed with Cronulla, playing in the Sharks' first-ever game, an 11–5 victory over Eastern Suburbs at the Sydney Sports Ground. McRitchie would go on to play 47 first-grade games between 1967 and 1969 at the Sharks, 61 in total for the club in all competitions, including 20 top-grade games in the inaugural 1967 season.
Born and raised in Rockdale, Sydney to parents William and Ena McRitchie, 'Big Al', as he would become known, first played rugby league with Arncliffe Scots.
A carpenter and builder, working on numerous dwellings in and around Sydney, Alan moved to the Sunshine Coast in 1980 with his beloved wife Patty and their family, with his love of the ocean meaning he never strayed far from the coast.
He spent most of fatherhood ensuring that his kids were happy and immersed in sport and in later years continued to watch rugby league and the NRL, while also spending time with his grandchildren and walking and swimming at Noosa Beach.
Alan is survived by his wife Patricia, son Brandt, grandchildren Abbey, Lara, Teddy, Sienna and Jasper. (Daughter Kim deceased.)
In following Alan's wishes, there will be no formal Funeral Service.
The Sharks will wear black arm bands when they play the Gold Coast Titans tomorrow night in honouring and remembering Alan McRitchie.
