‘He was an inspiration’: rugby fans pay tribute at Rob Burrow funeral

Kids in their complete rugby uniforms are happily playing in front of the Featherstone Lions rugby club in Pontefract, while adults in colorful jerseys are enjoying food, drinks, and lively conversations. The vibe feels more like a celebration than a somber occasion. Suddenly, everyone falls silent as they spot Rob Burrow's hearse approaching in the distance, bringing the beloved rugby star back to his hometown for the last time. As the procession gets closer, the crowd erupts into enthusiastic applause for the local hero who has inspired countless people.

Burrow, who passed away at the age of 41 in June after a five-year fight with motor neurone disease (MND), was a beloved figure in rugby league. A plaque at the entrance of Mill Pond stadium, where he started his career, carries the message: "Success is not permanent, failure is not deadly, it is the bravery to keep going that matters."

A fitting saying for a man who overcame obstacles in his brief time on Earth.

Standing at just 165cm (5ft 5in), Burrow may have been one of the shorter players in Super League history, but his impact on the game was immense. Whether playing as a scrum half or hooker, he made an impressive 500 appearances for Leeds Rhinos and proudly represented Great Britain, England, and his home county of Yorkshire. Throughout his successful career, Burrow secured eight Super League championships and two Challenge Cups, solidifying his place as a true legend of the sport.

He was selected for the Super League Dream Team three times and received the Harry Saunders trophy twice. Burrow played for the Leeds Rhinos for 17 years, scoring a total of 196 tries, 157 goals, and five drop-goals during his career.

Susan, aged 65, travelled all the way from Doncaster to bid farewell and express her admiration for Burrow. She expressed how he was one of the most exciting players to watch, noting his incredible ability to impact a game.

Alfie and his father, Andy, traveled from Leeds to visit Burrow's career. Alfie finds Burrow's achievements very inspiring. He admires how Burrow played despite his height and considers it amazing. At 14 years old, Alfie plays as a full-back and dreams of becoming a professional player in the future.

It wasn't just his performance on the rugby field that made him stand out. It was also his actions and contributions off the field that truly made him remarkable. He is truly one of those unique individuals that leaves a lasting impact on those around him.

Andy nodded in agreement, describing the player as an inspiration with great courage despite their small stature. He commended their ability to persevere and score some impressive tries.

Andy was surprised when Burrow revealed in 2019 that he had been diagnosed with MND, a disease that gradually weakens muscles and movement. Burrow was told he only had two years left to live and he spent that time raising millions of pounds for charities that help those affected by MND.

Andy believes people have unrealistic expectations for athletes and sports players, thinking they should be invincible. Despite being given only two years to live, the person in question has surpassed that and is still fighting. It was a sad day, but Andy finds comfort in honoring their resilience.

When talking about his diagnosis, Burrow explained: "Athletes are accustomed to getting injured, healing, and continuing with their sports. However, with MND, I couldn't simply do that. Nevertheless, I quickly made the decision to confront this challenge directly, just like I would do in competition as an athlete."

After five years, he and his friend Kevin Sinfield, who used to play rugby with him, collected over £15m for MND charities. Due to his accomplishments in rugby and his work in supporting the MND community, Burrow was awarded a CBE in the New Year's Honours in 2024.

Many people came together to see Burrow's funeral procession, which had a joyful feeling. "We should honor his accomplishments," said Paul, a retired Lions player. "We shouldn't be sad. We should celebrate instead."

Construction began on the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds, which had already received donations totaling £6 million, the day after his passing.

Burrow is mourned by Lindsey, their two daughters, Maya and Macy, as well as their son, Jackson. They are also survived by Burrow's parents and two sisters.