Vale Darryl Van de Velde

Author: Michael Hillier QRL Media
Timestamp: Fri 1 Mar 2024, 10:50 AM

Queensland Rugby League pays tribute to former Queensland Rugby League director, Darryl Van de Velde, who passed away on February 27.

Over many decades and celebrated rugby league eras, Van de Velde made a significant contribution to the game as a player, coach and administrator.

Very few have the skills and drive to reach the heights of the game in such a diverse capacity, but with a great feel for rugby league and its people, Van de Velde was able to mix it with the very best during his remarkable sporting journey.

On the field, Van de Velde donned the boots during one of the toughest and most competitive periods in the game’s history, with his exploits in the Brisbane Rugby League leading to his selection in the 1977 Queensland representative side.

With an unwavering love for the game, the former Easts, Souths and Redcliffe player transitioned seamlessly into the coaching ranks.

He guided Redcliffe to back-to-back BRL premierships before embarking on a successful coaching stint in England with Castleford, Huddersfield and Warrington.

However, rugby league in Queensland was always his passion, and he found his calling with the Queensland Rugby League and Men of League (now Family of League) after heading up the South Queensland Crushers.

Van de Velde served on the board of the QRL for more than 10 years, giving back to the game as the statewide competitions director.

He was immensely passionate about Queensland’s competitions and pathways, and always had an extra spring in his step at State of Origin time when his beloved Maroons were preparing to battle the Blues.

Van de Velde had only recently stepped down from the QRL Board after playing a key role in shaping the QRL’s coveted statewide footprint.

QRL chairman Bruce Hatcher today offered his condolences to Van de Velde’s family and friends.

“Darryl achieved many great things and was highly respected within the rugby league community,” Hatcher said.

“It can be a tough game at the best of times, so to be able to play, coach and serve as an administrator at such a high level over many years is a testament to his character and love for the game.

“His passion for rugby league, particularly here in Queensland, was always evident in the boardroom and throughout his many travels and endeavours throughout the state.”

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.

Van de Velde was 72.

Family, friends and the rugby league community are warmly invited to come together on Monday, March 11 to celebrate Darryl Van de Velde’s life and the enduring impact he had on so many.