Sea Eagles launch 2023 Heritage Jersey
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles have today released a commemorative Heritage jersey that acknowledges the early pioneers of the club.
To be worn against the North Queensland Cowboys in Round 20 at 4 Pines Park, the Heritage Jersey design sees Sea Eagles’ Community and Premier Partner, United Resource Management, across the main front.
The jersey highlights the rich history of the Sea Eagles by paying homage to a jersey Manly Warringah players wore from 1951-1956. Manly entered the NSWRL competition in 1947.
The ‘Godfather of Manly’, Ken Arthurson - who wore the jersey as a young half-back in his 41 games for Manly from 1950-52 - was joined at today's launch at 4 Pines Park by Sea Eagles greats Max Krilich and Cliff Lyons.
The jersey also recognises and celebrates an incredible 27 consecutive years of the Sea Eagles partnership with Premier Partner United Resource Management (URM).
The garment also features Dynasty Sport’s new cutting-edge Ecotek fabric which is made from recycled plastic bottles.
This jersey design was worn by some greats of the Manly club, including Wally O’Çonnell, Gordon Willoughby, Roy Bull, Ron Rowles, and Arthurson to name a few.
From 1951-1956 when this jersey was worn, Manly started to build a solid foundation as a club on the rise, making the finals twice.
Manly finished runners-up to South Sydney in the 1951 Grand Final under former Australian Test Captain, Wally O’Connell, who was captain-coach of Manly in 1951-52.
Prop Roy Bull, Manly’s first ever Australian Test player, took over as captain-coach of the Sea Eagles in 1953.
Bull played 177 matches for Manly. He was captained of Manly in 1955 with the club being semi-finalists under coach Pat Devery.
His legacy still leaves on today with the presentation of the Roy Bull Medal given to the NRL’s team’s best and fairest player each season.
URM Managing Director, Anthony Johnston, said URM was proud to have its name on this special jersey.
“This is an incredible jersey that pays tribute to the early days of the Sea Eagles. These men laid the foundation for the future success of Manly and for that, we should forever be grateful," Johnston said.
“Being a long-term partner of the Sea Eagles and many Northern Beaches organisations, URM with the Sea Eagles, celebrates our Northern Beaches Heritage.
“We are very proud to have played a significant part in the rich history of the Sea Eagles over the past 27 years and look forward to celebrating this significant milestone through the release of this heritage jersey.”
You can purchase the 2023 Heritage Jersey here
