The Sharks were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Shark #80 and Life Member Steve ‘Rock’ Edmonds, a player whose contribution to the club spanned a decade and helped shape some of the most memorable chapters in Cronulla’s history.
A local junior from the Taren Point club, Edmonds became one of the most recognisable Sharks of the 1970s, renowned for his trademark blonde hair, toughness, determination and remarkable ability to find the try-line.
After making his first-grade debut in 1972, Edmonds went on to play 113 premiership matches for the Sharks between 1972 and 1981, scoring 45 tries during a distinguished career. He was a member of the club's historic 1973 and 1978 grand final squads, with his most memorable moment coming in the drawn 1978 Grand Final against Manly when he crossed for a crucial second-half try that briefly put Cronulla in front on rugby league's biggest stage.
Edmonds pounces on a Rogers bomb
One of the club's most consistent outside backs, Edmonds enjoyed an outstanding 1979 season, finishing as Cronulla's leading try-scorer with 13 tries. While never considered the quickest winger in the competition, he possessed an exceptional football instinct, regularly capitalising on opportunities created by the talented Sharks backline of that era.
Following his retirement, Edmonds remained proudly connected to the Sharks and the Sutherland Shire community. His contribution to the club was recognised through Life Membership, and in 2017, he was nominated for a wing position in the Sharks Team of the Half Century, a fitting acknowledgement of his place among the club's finest players.
Steve Edmonds will be remembered not only for his achievements on the field, but also for the loyalty, character and passion he displayed throughout his association with the Cronulla Sharks.
His place in the club's history is assured, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be fondly remembered by teammates, supporters and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The Sharks extend their sincere condolences to his wife Lesley, his family, friends and former teammates during this difficult time.
On Sunday, Cronulla will wear black arm bands for Rock, paying tribute to the great man and his family.
