THE Rugby League world is paying tribute to former Warrington Wolves’ Head Coach Darryl Van de Velde who has sadly died aged 72.
Van de Velde spent five seasons at Warrington between 1997 and 2001 working alongside Rugby League legends like Alfie Langer who pulled on the primrose and blue.
Warrington released a statement saying: “The Club is deeply saddened to hear that former Head Coach Darryl Van de Velde has passed away at the age of 72. Our thoughts are with Darryl’s loved ones at this sad time 💙 ”
Back in his homeland of Australia Van de Velde’s journey in the world of rugby league has been described as “nothing short of remarkable“.
From his early days as a player to his significant contributions as a coach and later as an administrator, his career was a testament to his versatility and success in various roles. Notably, his coaching tenure at Wilderspool from 1997 to 2001, where he achieved 59 wins out of 140 matches, underscored his ability to lead and inspire. His coaching stints in England with Castleford and Huddersfield, as well as leading Redcliffe to consecutive Brisbane Rugby League premierships, highlighted his strategic acumen and passion for the game.
Van de Velde’s influence extended far beyond the pitch. As a respected member of the Queensland Rugby League board, he played a pivotal role in shaping the sport’s future in the region. His dedication to rugby league in Queensland was unwavering, earning him accolades for his impactful contributions.
He played club football in Queensland for Souths and represented his state on one occasion in 1977. After playing he coached the Brisbane Rugby League premiership’s Redcliffe side in 1986 and 1987, taking his club to consecutive grand finals.
He was part of an unsuccessful syndicate to form the first New South Wales Rugby League premiership club in Queensland.
He spent five years Warrington, but he failed to win a trophy before leaving in 2001. He returned to Australia, and became a board member of the Queensland Rugby League in 2013.
A Life Member and former board member of Men of League, Van de Velde shared many memorable rugby league moments with his wife Jacque and children, his biggest supporters.
The Club is deeply saddened to hear that former Head Coach Darryl Van de Velde has passed away at the age of 72
Our thoughts are with Darryl's loved ones at this sad time 💙 pic.twitter.com/R2WuObJbWQ
— Warrington Wolves (@WarringtonRLFC) February 27, 2024
