Arthur Beetson leaves the field for the last time.

Arthur Beetson – or ‘big Artie’ as he was known, was  a great role model for aspiring footballers and in particular young Aboriginal players.

His contribution to Easts in the 1970s was, like the man himself, huge – winning two premierships in 1974 and 1975.  Despite taking on many causes afterwards, his ties to the club were always very strong, returning as an assistant coach in 2010. 

In that year, he was inducted into the Roosters’ Hall of Fame, alongside Brad Fittler and legendary coach Jack Gibson. 

On and off the field, Artie truly was a giant of the game. With Rugby League fans around Australia, and especially Roosters fans in Wentworth, we lament Artie’s passing and give our condolences to his family and friends.