Vale - Damien 'The Duck' Maree
It’s with great sadness that Randwick DRUFC advises of the passing last weekend of popular Randwick ex-player, former sponsor, lifelong supporter and mate to many Damien ‘The Duck’ Maree, after a long and courageous battle with illness.
Vale - Damien 'The Duck' Maree
It’s with great sadness that Randwick DRUFC advises of the passing last weekend of popular Randwick ex-player, former sponsor, lifelong supporter and mate to many Damien ‘The Duck’ Maree, after a long and courageous battle with illness.
In all, 'The Duck', who competed well above his physical stature as a tighthead prop, played 100 lower grade games for Randwick Rugby in the 1970/80's period, scoring 4 tries.
Legend has it that one of those tries was scored after a penalty goal attempt hit the post, the ball fortuitously rebounded into his hands as he was crouched tying his bootlace up. Duck then simply arose and waddled over to score without being touched. Arguably, the most novel try in our history!
The link between rugby and the surf club was strong in those times, with 'The Duck' being a 65-year member of Coogee Surf LIfesaving Club, along with his close Wicks mates Jeffrey Sayle, Dennis Cleary and Kevin Phibbs to name but just a few.
Another old mate and ex-Wallaby Gary Pearce said today. "Duck was a really unique character who symbolised the true egalitarian culture of Randwick Rugby, he proudly wore his nickname and was a great and fun friend."
On a personal note, 'Duck' was always extremely encouraging to me in this role and I always valued his passionate support of our club and friendship.
The celebration of 'The Duck's' life will be held next Wednesday, January 25th at St Brigid's Catholic Church, Brook St Coogee at 10.30am.
Because his favourite haunt, Dong Dong Noodles Restaurant at Kingsford won't be big enough, his wake will follow after the service at his beloved Coogee Surf Club instead.
On behalf of all at Randwick Rugby, we extend our deepest sympathy to Damien’s wife Felicity, his 4 sons Josh, Simon, Joe and Sam, his 4 grandchildren, his extended family and mountain of friends across the rugby, surf club and local community.
RIP 'Duck'. God bless you mate, your family and many friends. You will be missed.🦆🐎
Up the Wicks!
Mark Harrison
General Manager Randwick DRUFC
