Former Tiger and Raider Percy Knight has been remembered for his imprint on rugby league after news of his passing.
Knight, a Wiradjuri man from Condobolin in NSW's central-west, played 88 first grade games in the NSWRL between in the 1970s and '80s, and later served as a chairman of the Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council.
He was a member of the Monaro area representative side who defeated touring Great Britain 33-12 in 1977.
Arriving at Balmain the following year, Knight made 66 appearances for the club before moving back closer to home to join Canberra for their second season in the top competition in 1983.
The Raiders paid tribute to Knight on Monday.
Former chairman of the club, John McIntyre, said Knight was in the club's sights from early days, ahead of playing 24 matches in green.
"Percy was one of a number of players we listed in the official submission to the NSWRL as possible players we would target if we were to gain entry to the competition," Mr McIntyre said in a club statement.
"We weren't able to sign him initially, though, as he re-signed with Balmain, but eventually he joined the Raiders alongside a number of former Balmain players."
Knight played a role in establishing Wiradjuri Condobolin Corporation in his hometown post-career, and later became an academic with University of Sydney in their business school.
In an interview with online memorabilia website Dan's Rugby League Collectables, Knight said "recognition" and being the first Aboriginal player selected at five-eight for a Sydney side at the elite level were the personal highlight of his playing career.
ARL chairman Peter V'landys extended his condolences to Knights' loved ones on Monday.
"Percy rose to prominence representing Monaro against a touring Great Britain side in 1977, before forging a great career with Balmain and Canberra," V'landys said.
"Percy was something of a trailblazer for Indigenous players and people. An exceptionally smart footballer who put his talents to good use off the field.
"He was a Chairman of the Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council who was passionate about the game, about shaping direction, helping to inspire Indigenous communities and promoting social inclusion."
