The Panthers are mourning the loss of one of their greats today, following the passing of former player Ross Gigg.
The 58-year-old played his junior football with Blacktown Leagues before signing with Penrith in 1974. He was the 111th player to make his first grade debut with Penrith against Newtown, and had a very successful career spanning 10 years.
Most of his rugby league career was spent with Penrith, except for the two seasons he spent with Group 10 club Lithgow Shamrocks in 1980-81. After retiring in 1984, Ross served the club as Assistant Secretary, before taking on a role as General Manager of Western Australian Rugby League in the 1990’s.
Panthers Executive General Manager Rugby League Phil Gould played with Ross for a number of years, and is deeply saddened by his passing.
“The Panthers and indeed the game of Rugby League has lost a great man today. I personally had the pleasure of playing with Ross back in the 70s and early 80s at Panthers. He was a wonderfully talented footballer, as well as being a loyal team mate and friend,” he said.
“Ross also served as a dedicated administrator at this club. Away from the playing field Ross was a tremendous person and things were always more fun when he was around.
“He was great company. From all of us here at Panthers, to Ross’s family Linda, Jason and Hayley, and his many friends, I would like to extend our deepest condolences and sincerest best wishes. We feel a great sense of loss today.”
Panthers players will pay tribute to Ross by wearing black arm bands in Sunday’s game against Newcastle.
