See attached notice from the Tumut Blues Rugby League club on the recent passing of former North Newcastle player Steve Olsen on January 27th.
Steve originally from Forbes, then to South Newcastle in 1978 and finally with us here at North Newcastle in 1979.
Steve played 5/8 in our last ever premiership win of that year.
Our condolences from everyone at the Bluebags go out to Steve’s brother Wayne, all of the Olsen families, friends and all his fellow teammates from his year with us in 1979.
RIP Steve.
Tumut Blues Rugby League Old Boys.
Stephen Olsen Tribute.
It is with a heavy heart that the Blues Old Boys pass on the news that Stephen has lost his battle with an aggressive throat cancer. Stephen was residing at Wauchope at the time of his demise & is survived by his loving wife Kristine & children Tameka & Nicholas.
Stephen come to Tumut Blues as Captain Coach in 1981 from his home town Forbes, transferring from his beloved Magpies. He remained with the Blues in that position to the end of 1983 season & was joined by good mates John Sellar & Glenn Pengilly. It didn’t take long for Stephen to mould together a very formable Blues combination which come to the fore in 1982. Unfortunately, the Blues fell one short at the final hurdle, going down to the Cootamundra Bulldogs in the Group 9 Grand Final. Playing at lock forward, Stephen was slight in stature but big in heart, with good Rugby League judges branding Him one of the best pound for pound players to don the Blue guernsey.
Stephen Olsen was not just a very accomplished footballer, his demeaner off the field saw him gain the respect of young & old throughout the Rugby League fraternity & citizens of the Tumut Shire. His involvement with the Blues was total commitment, rallying his troops to assist the committee with fund raisers & contributing to Minor League when available. Even in today’s circles, when comparisons are made, Stephen Olsen’s name still comes up as pound for pound one of the best, who had ball playing skills to match his defensive ability.
Stephen’s funeral will be held at Wauchope on Tuesday 31st January 2023, commencing at 11.00 am.
Stephen’s team mates have organised a memorial gathering in Stephen’s honour for next Tuesday at the Star Hotel commencing at 4.00 pm. It is hoped those present can witness a replay of the service through a video-link. Past players, Blues officials & friends of Stephens are invited to attend & if you have any memorabilia from that era, please bring it with you.
Rest in Peace Stephen Olsen.
Dossie Carr.
Secretary Blues Old Boys.
