DYLAN SMITH
A lifelong dedication to the Narrabri Rugby League has seen Michael Knox awarded life membership of the Blues.
What started as playing under-18s football has turned into decades of involvement with the club in various roles.
Knox’s was one of three life memberships awarded recently by the Blues.
Jeff Pattison and Mark Lyon, both showcased in a previous edition, were also awarded top honours.
Knox joined the club in 1990 to play in the under-18s in what was an exciting year to join the Blues.
The Blues went on to play West Tamworth in the grand final and were victorious.
“It was great. I was excited,” Knox recalled.
Knox had his own taste of grand final football, playing in finals in 1992, 1994, 2010, 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2017 in various grades.
From under-18s, he made the move into senior levels of football before finishing first grade football in 2010–11.
Knox continued playing reserve grade until he hung up his boots officially in 2024 marking the end of 33 years of playing with the Blues.
In that time, he missed two seasons – one when playing with Wee Waa in 2004 and then during COVID in 2020.
LEFT: Narrabri Rugby League life membership recipients Michael Knox, Jeff Pattison and Mark Lyon have been celebrated for their contributions to the Blues. RIGHT: Michael Knox was presented with his life member’s badge by Rya Knox. Photos: Tom Pattison.
Among Knox’s playing highlights were being awarded the highest try scorer in a year for Group 4 with almost 40 tries, equalling a record set by Doug Heiler.
While Knox has hung up his boots, he still enjoys contributing to the Blues where he can often be seen on game days running water.
That love of the Blues also carried down to the next generation, with daughter Rya playing ladies’ league tag. Mackenzie also spent several years playing for the Blues women.
“I got into footy as a kid when I was seven years old with Narrabri junior league,” Knox said.
“I just loved playing footy.
“It was great getting out on the field with your mates.”
Knox has fond memories of the Blues even prior to his playing days when he was the sand boy as a child.
“The Blues have been a big part of my life,” he said.
While his playing days have ended for league, Knox still likes to keep active and has played touch football and oz tag.
Reflecting on his life membership recognition, Knox described it as a special honour.
He acknowledged Pat Mowle for his role in putting forward the nomination.
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