Here's my little tribute to GI.
Since the announcement, I've given myself some time to reflect on Greg's career and think about what I wanted to say to pay tribute to him. Upon thinking about this, it came to my attention that I simply do not have the words to describe GI's amazing career. But then I realised that having no words is quite fitting, that reason being that GI has took words of of my mouth and left me speechless so many times throughout the years that there just have been no words to describe it.
There will NEVER be another player like GI. He is the most freakish athlete I have ever seen play our great game without a shadow of a doubt. Just the way he moved, the speed, the fend, the power, the strength, it was honestly insane. Some of the stuff he did on the field defies belief, it really does and it is something that only he could ever pull off. The amount of times he made it look like men against boys is crazy. The try he scored on Anzac day against the Broncos in 2014 is hands down the greatest individual try I have ever seen and probably ever will see to be honest. It just shows what the great GI as a player is all about, all in one run. It is the kind of try that leaves even non-Rugby League fans in awe. It's not only GI's athletic ability and skills though, it's his aura. He just has this presence about him that commands respect and it makes everyone around him lift. Players always say that if GI is on their side, their confidence lifts.
Greg is an outstanding leader as well because of this aura. He has captained our club, his state, his culture and would've captained his country. That is simply outstanding. We all know what GI does off the field too, amazing community work that will forever leave a lasting legacy for everyone. Not only that but to speak up about mental health and facing your demons and become such a strong advocate to do so was honestly incredible. It is this community work and off field presence that in my opinion, puts him ahead of Cameron Smith in terms of overall greatness.
GI has done it all and given everything to the game. He's won Premierships, Origins, all the individual honours, everything. For me, he is easily up there with the greatest of all time and I genuinely think he deserves to be an immortal some time in the future.
GI, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for all the wonderful memories you have given us. You said when you signed with us in 2010 that you would deliver a Premiership and you did that, therefore, us members and fans are forever grateful. I don't think we win that comp without you and I don't think the club would be where it is today without you. Your try in the 2014 Grand Final will forever be my greatest sporting moment, that was unforgettable. So yea, I think I speak for every Souths fan when I say thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I'm gutted it's had to end this was this soon and I'd be lying if I said I didn't cry today but that shows how much you mean to us as fans. I feel so privileged to have lived in a time where I got to witness a player like you because you are seriously once in a generation, the kind of player I am going to tell my kids about and you'll still be being talked about in 100 years time.
All the best in retirement and your new role with the club. You will be missed but congrats on one hell of a career!!!!