Inaugural Cronulla-Sutherland lock visited by Foundation

Former North Sydney Bear and Cronulla Shark Eric Barnes is currently undergoing treatment for a handful of medical issues.

Eric – a tough, light-weight forward in the 60’s – earned plenty of respect during his playing career for his high work rate, and was talented enough to be useful in a number of positions. He played as a lock, a prop and a hooker throughout his career.

He was a member of the inaugural Cronulla-Sutherland side that joined the competition in 1967, featuring in the first ever match the club played as they ran out 11-5 winners over Eastern Suburbs at the old Sydney Sports Ground – a ground that is now a car park for those visiting the Moore Park sporting precinct.

When he left Sydney he headed up the coast to North Tamworth with the intention of playing a season as captain-coach at the local club, only to find himself still running around 19 years later.

Now retired in Sawtell, Eric surfs and plays golf whenever he has the time, and all at the Men of League Foundation wish him well and hope he recovers soon.

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