“An extraordinary man” – Hull KR confirm the passing of club legend Phil Lowe

Hull KR have confirmed the saw news that club legend Phil Lowe has passed away at the age of 74.

It’s an incredibly sad day for the rugby league family whenever we lose an ex-player especially so when that player was such a talented individual and one of the legends of the game.

Lowe spent his entire English career with Hull KR but also forged a path in Australia with Manly Sea Eagles for whom he played 72 times.

He was both an England and a Great Britain representative and was part of the famous World Cup-winning side of Great Britain’s in 1972.

In a BBC article from 2008, pundit and former teammate of Lowe’s Mike ‘Stevo’ Stephenson described Lowe as a “giant of a man and a brilliant exponent of a forward running out wide in the centre areas”.

As Hull KR led the tributes to their former player, they too referenced his powerful running style that saw him amass so many metres and so many tries for a forward. Lowe finished his career with an impressive international record of 10 tries in 17 games.

Hull KR confirmed the news via their website, stating: “Hull KR are deeply saddened to announce one of our greatest Robins, Phil Lowe has passed away at the age of 74.

“The club extends it’s heartfelt condolences to Phil’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“Phil Lowe was, quite simply, the finest running second row forward the game of rugby league has seen. At his devastating best, the sight of “Lowey”, his legs pumping with his characteristically high knee action and powering him through defences, thrilled his supporters and at the same time struck fear into would-be defenders.”

A full summary of Phil Lowe’s impressive and incredible career can be read via Hull KR’s own obituary of one of their finest-ever players, linked here.

“He was a one-off” – Tributes paid to Hull KR legend Phil Lowe

As well as Phil Lowe’s incredible international try-scoring record, he also ranks third on Hull KR’s all-time chart behind just Roger Millward and Steve Hartley.

His 418 appearances for the club also places him inside the top ten, proudly sitting sixth, highlighting what an incredible servant he was to the club particularly given that he tested his hand in Australia as well for a period.

He since served as club chairman and football director and now the current Hull KR owner, Neil Hudgell, has paid tribute following Lowe’s sad passing.

Hudgell said: “Phil was an extraordinary man. A one-off.

“He achieved everything in the sport, being a Grand Final winner on both sides of the world. He was decorated for his country many times over. Phil did it with modesty and humility. He was my hero when growing up around the sport in the 1970’s.

“The sight of Phil Lowe in full flight was something no one who witnessed it will ever forget.

“He became a very good friend of mine over the last 20 years, we made many great memories together. He was always direct and to the point, but had a very kind heart. He was respected everywhere.

“I won’t forget our last trip down under. He met Rob Crossland and I off the quay at Manly and took us in the Steyne Hotel, his local. He was still revered there some 40 years after hanging up his boots.

“Phil will be greatly missed by his very many friends. A true red and white, Hull KR has lost a legend, and part of its fabric.”

Everyone at Serious About Rugby League would like to wish condolences to the family and friends of Phil Lowe at this time.

Featured image credited to Hull KR.