Wests Tigers are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Western Suburbs player and life member, John ‘Chow’ Hayes, age 84.
Hayes was born in Marrickville and left school at age 14 to pursue a career as a professional rugby league player and panel beater.
He played his junior rugby league with clubs including South Strathfield, Haberfield and Granville before capturing the attention of Western Suburbs Magpies.
A versatile forward, Hayes made his debut for the Magpies in 1961 and went on to play in the Grand Final loss to St George Dragons that year.
He was also selected to play for NSW on two occasions in 1961.
Hayes played 160 games for the Magpies before retiring in 1970 to pursue a coaching career. He was in charge of the Magpies reserve grade side from 1971-73 taking them to the Semi-finals in his first year.
Wests Tigers passes on its sincere condolences to John’s family and friends.
