Vale Arthur Summons: Tributes flow for one of the greatest to play the game

18 May, 2020 The81stMinute 0 Comments 1 category

BY STAFF WRITERS

Tributes have been flowing for former Australian and Western Suburbs halfback Arthur Summons who passed away on Saturday night aged 84.

Summons was one of the best playmakers to ever play the game and features in the most iconic image the game knows. ‘The Gladiators’ photo was taken after the 1963 grand final between the Dragons and Magpies with Summons embracing the much taller Norm Provan.

The men are featured on the Telstra Premiership trophy.

Very sad to hear of Arthur Summons passing. I had the great privilege to spend time with him over the years & I always regarded him as genuine rugby league royalty. A humble & humorous gentleman. Thinking of all the Summons family. RIP Arthur.
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) May 17, 2020

RIP Arthur Summons, a true RL Gladiator whose spirit lives on in our Premiership trophy. Sad day for RL. https://t.co/Fwy2rel5A7
— Lynne Anderson (@lynnemanderson) May 17, 2020

I met Arthur Summons a few years ago at the Dally M Medal. He took the time to ask me questions and was interested in what I had to say. What a great man. A legendary figure.
— Curtis Woodward (@woodward_curtis) May 17, 2020

Growing up in Wagga we all knew Arthur Summons was a great !! But he behaved like a “ joe blow” a kind , modest decent gentleman ..thoughts for his wonderful family
— Damian Ryan (@DamoNews) May 17, 2020

RIP Arthur Summons – the little guy in league's most iconic image… pic.twitter.com/fu6XDeBetZ
— The Mole (@9_Moley) May 17, 2020

Peter V’landys quietly watching highlights of Arthur Summons in the Rugby League Museum before doing a press conference about his passing. Vale, Arthur Summons. #NRL @NRL pic.twitter.com/m28CNaMQgF
— Jelisa Apps (@JelisaApps) May 17, 2020

Arthur Summons was immortalised by a moment in time shared with the equally legendary Norm Provan… rightfully symbolising and honouring everything that was great about our game of Rugby League! RIP Arthur…..you have done your job. #LEGEND
— Chop (@chop59) May 17, 2020

Vale Arthur Summons @NRL legend, Australian captain, absolute gentleman- Life Member of @AustralianLabor 🏉
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) May 17, 2020

Anyone who had the pleasure of meeting the great man Arthur Summons was better for that experience. RIP a league legend. Best wishes to his family.
— Greg Prichard (@gregprichard) May 17, 2020

The entire Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club send their condolences to the family and friends of Arthur Summons. RIP. pic.twitter.com/rHu3w4BMyj
— Melbourne Storm (@storm) May 17, 2020

So sad to hear the great Arthur Summons has passed away. Thank you sir for all you did for rugby league. Never to be forgotten. Rest in Peace.@FOXNRL @fanfoxleague @westsmagpies
— Andrew Voss (@AndrewVossy) May 17, 2020