In Memory of Greg Mackey

Warrington Wolves were sad to learn of the passing of former captain Greg Mackey on Wednesday 24 September at the age of 52.

Greg was diagnosed with bowel cancer in December 2011. Despite a brave battle, operations and chemotherapy he suffered a heart attack and died today.

Australian born Greg first joined Warrington in August 1989 and played nine games. Warrington won eight of them and drew the other, culminating in a Lancashire Cup Final victory.

Mackey then received a lucrative offer from Hull, whilst at the Boulevard he earned the Harry Sunderland Trophy when Hull beat Widnes 14-4 in the 1991 Premiership Final.

Warrington coach Brian Johnson brought Greg back to Wilderspool in the summer of 1992 and he gave Warrington three years of outstanding service. From his second debut on 30 August 1992 to 25 February 1995, he never missed a match, making 98 consecutive appearances, a club record.

Mackey's own personal run of consecutive appearances stretched back to 12 November 1989. He made 94 consecutive appearances for Hull making a grand total of 192, a truly remarkable achievement.

Ginger-haired Greg, nicknamed "Bluey" was always a fans favourite, with his inspiration leadership and organisational skills. He was captain of the 1993/4 Warrington side that came so close to lifting the Championship.

Greg played 123 times for Warrington scoring 19 tries, kicking 4 goals and dropping 20 goals for a total of 104 points. His Warrington Heritage Number is 891.

Mackey had played for South Sydney, Illawarra Steelers and Canterbury in a ten year career in Australia. He even spent the winter of 1983/4 playing in France for Paris Châtillon XIII. Greg finished his career by playing for Huddersfield Giants in 1996, the first season of summer rugby.

Following his time in England, Greg and his family returned to Sydney, where he worked in the telecoms industry. He leaves a wife Amanda, three children Kane, Ebony and Tom and identical twin granddaughters Grace and Lillian.