Retired Manly Sea Eagles great Max Krilich made an emotional request for his ashes to be scattered at Brookvale Oval, where he built his legacy. When the time comes, the rugby league icon, who captained Australia to a World Cup victory, wants his final resting place to be at the spiritual home of Manly.
Mr Krilich, a stalwart of the Manly Sea Eagles, played 215 games for the club between 1970 and 1983. As a fierce competitor and natural leader, he captained Manly and the Australian national team, securing a World Cup triumph in 1982. Brookvale Oval, now known as 4 Pines Park, was the stage for many of Mr Krilich’s greatest achievements.
Beyond his playing career, Mr Krilich remained respected in the Manly community. He advocates for the club and supports its future generations. His request to have his ashes scattered at Brookvale Oval is a testament to his lifelong dedication to the Sea Eagles and their home ground.
Ken Arthurson’s Push for Brookie Hill Tribute
Rugby league administrator and former Manly coach Ken Arthurson has backed the idea of honouring Mr Krilich at Brookvale Oval. Mr Arthurson is campaigning for ‘Brookie Hill’ to be named after Mr Krilich and fellow Manly legend Roy Bull, recognising their immense contributions to the club’s history.
Mr Arthurson, widely regarded as the ‘Godfather of Manly,’ believes that renaming the iconic hill would provide a lasting tribute to two players who defined the club’s success in different eras. The push has gained traction among Sea Eagles fans and former players, who acknowledge the importance of preserving the club’s rich heritage.
The Emotional Support from Family and Fans
Mr Krilich’s wife, Irene, has voiced her support for his wish, understanding how much Brookvale Oval meant to him throughout his life. She shared that his deep attachment to the ground was not just professional but personal, with countless memories made both on and off the field. Fans have also rallied behind the idea, recognising the significance of granting one of their greatest captains his final wish.
A Career of Dedication and Excellence
Mr Krilich was a two-time premiership-winning player who played 215 first-grade games for Manly after making his debut in 1970. Before leading the unbeaten 1982 Kangaroos, he served as a reserve-grade hooker under club captain Fred Jones, honing his skills before assuming the top role. His leadership in the 1978 grand final victory and subsequent international success cemented his reputation as one of the game’s greatest captains.
In total, Mr Krilich played a record 334-grade games for Manly and later transitioned into administration, becoming a club chairman and life member. His contributions to the Sea Eagles extended beyond the field, ensuring the club’s legacy remained strong.
Between playing in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Mr Krilich balanced his rugby league career with an apprenticeship, eventually becoming a qualified plumber and running his own business, Max Krilich Plumbing Pty Ltd. In retirement, he remains an active club ambassador and an avid golfer, continuing to be involved in the Manly Sea Eagles community.
Next Steps: Honouring a Rugby League Icon
Discussions are ongoing regarding Mr Krilich’s request and the potential renaming of Brookie Hill. While official approval is yet to be granted, momentum is building within the Manly Sea Eagles community to ensure that one of their most revered figures is given a fitting tribute at the ground where he made history.
Published 19-Feb-2025