Rob Burrow gives incredibly moving speech as he accepts amazing award

Former Leeds Rhinos’ legend Rob Burrow has been granted ‘Freedom of the City of Leeds’ today in an emotional ceremony and the iconic Burrow gave a speech upon accepting his award that will have shaken many a man to tears.

It was announced in December that both Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield would receive the massive award of being granted ‘Freedom of the City of Leeds’ which is the highest honour that cities in the UK can bestow upon citizens.

Following that announcement Burrow also earned the Helen Rollason Award at the 2022 Sports Personality of the Year awards in recognition of his brilliant work in battling Motor Neurone Disease, whilst also raising awareness and helping to raise millions of pounds.

Sinfield too was honoured with a special recognition trophy and now in the new year it was time for Burrow to actually receive his award, something he did attended by his wife Lindsey.

His former club Leeds Rhinos had posted pictures to their social media of Burrow at the ceremony but they’ve now gone a step further and released footage of his emotional acceptance speech.

In his own words @Rob7Burrow 💙💛💛 pic.twitter.com/6NcY1S9RzQ

— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) January 11, 2023

Burrow said: “I’m speechless to represent this city, the best city in the world. Of course I am an outsider from the dark side of the river but it feels like home.

“I’ve represented the best city and I can’t see how to get more from Leeds than to receive this honour.

“Thanks to my entire family for their help and support throughout the three years, especially my wife and kids who give me reason to never give in.

“Finally, to Kevin who has gone above and beyond for his mate I accept this on behalf of the city of Leeds, the place where my dreams came true.”

The speech received rapturous applause and allowed Burrow to display emotions ranging from humour to humility as he spoke via the technology that enabled him to read a bedtime story to the nation’s children only last month.

A fitting award for an amazing man, congratulations to Rob and Kevin from all at Serious About Rugby League.