GREAT BRITAIN’S GREATEST RUGBY LEAGUE PLAYERS – NEIL FOX

Neil Fox MBE, born on 4 May 1939, is a legendary figure in rugby league, particularly known for his time with Wakefield Trinity. Fox’s rugby league career, spanning from the 1950s to the 1970s, is illustrious and decorated with numerous accolades. Fox grew up in Sharlston, West Riding of Yorkshire, England, and supported Huddersfield. However, his professional journey began when he signed for Wakefield Trinity at the tender age of 16. Fox’s prowess as a left-footed, goal-kicking centre soon became evident, marking the start of an extraordinary career.

Achievements with Wakefield Trinity

Fox’s impact on Wakefield Trinity was immediate and profound. In the 1959–60 season, he played a pivotal role in Wakefield Trinity’s 38–5 victory over Hull F.C. in the Challenge Cup Final. During this match, he scored two tries and seven goals, setting a new record for the most points scored in a Challenge Cup Final. Consequently, this remarkable performance solidified his reputation as a formidable player.

Moreover, Fox’s excellence continued in the subsequent seasons. He won the prestigious Lance Todd Trophy as the man of the match in the 1961–62 Challenge Cup Final. During this match, he scored a try and kicked three drop-goals, leading Wakefield Trinity to a 12–6 victory over Huddersfield. This match, held at Wembley Stadium, was witnessed by a crowd of 81,263, further cementing Fox’s legendary status.

International Success with Great Britain

Neil Fox’s prowess extended beyond domestic competitions. In 1959, he was a crucial member of the Great Britain team that won the Ashes on home soil. Furthermore, he played a significant role in the 1962 Ashes series, where Great Britain defeated Australia 2-1 in Australia. As a result, Fox’s contributions were instrumental in Great Britain’s international rugby league success.

Triumphant Return to Leeds

Returning to his roots at Leeds, Schofield made headlines with a record-breaking transfer fee and continued to shine on the field. His contributions to Leeds’ victories, including the Yorkshire County Cup Final triumph in 1988 and his Man of Steel Award in 1991, solidified his status as a rugby league icon. His remarkable try-scoring record and leadership qualities further endeared him to fans and teammates alike.

Later Career and Recognition

Fox’s career saw him play for various Yorkshire clubs, including Bradford Northern, Hull Kingston Rovers, York, Bramley, and Huddersfield. He achieved an all-time points record of 6,220 points, a testament to his exceptional skill and longevity in the sport. In the 1983 Birthday Honours, Fox was awarded an MBE for his services to rugby league. Additionally, he was inducted into the Rugby League Hall of Fame in 1989, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the sport. Subsequently, on 30 August 2005, Fox, along with Billy Boston and Mick Sullivan, opened the Rugby League Heritage Centre, celebrating the rich history of the sport.

Ellis Rugby Vintage Shirts

To celebrate the legacy of Neil Fox and the great rugby league teams, Ellis Rugby offers a collection of vintage Great Britain and Wakefield Trinity rugby league shirts. These shirts are a tribute to the golden era of rugby league, allowing fans to honor and remember the legendary players and teams that shaped the sport. Consequently, these vintage shirts are a perfect way for fans to connect with the rich heritage of rugby league and celebrate the achievements of icons like Neil Fox..

Ellis Rugby offers a retro Rugby League clothing range that celebrates the great Rugby League teams – our RL Collection HERE.