Sad to hear of the passing away of Geoff Wheel, who I learnt a few months ago had MND and passed onto a couple of posters on here, he didn't want his condition broadcast around.
IMO a true great of Welsh Rugby will be sadly missed and I send my condolences to his friends and family
Very sad news RIP.
One of my idols, now playing the organ in heaven to all the other heroes of the 70's
Wheelie was involved in the last Wales trial I attended at the old National Stadium. They opened up the old South enclosure and it was packed with bitter, cynical fans and me. Geoff unfailingly called "My Ball" at every line-out and at every line-out that ball sailed past him. It soon came to pass that there was a line-out on halfway on the south side. As the hooker pulled his arm back to throw the entire enclosure called with one voice; "MY BALL!"
Geoff was halfway over the railing into the crowd before his team mates and the ref dragged him back. He eventually saw the funny side and next time he had a chance he raised his arms to the enclosure and "conducted" them in a chorus of "My Ball." Simpler days.
Indeed Wayne a legend of St Helens and member of multiple grand slam winning sides. Selected for the Lions but forced to withdraw with a heart defect. RIP Gaffa Wheel Man of Steel.
My idol growing up, very sad news indeed...RIP.