Former Kiwis star Benji Marshall was inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame last night alongside some of the all-time greats of the game.
Marshall was one of 11 men's players inducted into the Hall of Fame at the Sydney Cricket Ground last night. For the first time six female players were also inducted.
Two referees, two coaches and four contributors to the game were also recognised.
"It's nice to be recognised, there's some great people that have been inducted into the Hall of Fame so to be in the company of some of these guys is pretty special," said Marshall.
Marshall said he didn't expect to be inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame.
"I'm just a boy from a small town in New Zealand, I didn't think it at all."
The 39-year-old made his debut for Wests Tigers in 2003 and went on to make 257 appearances in two stints for the Sydney-based club. In total he made 346 NRL appearances as well as 31 for the Kiwis, and was part of the 2008 Rugby League World Cup winning side.
In his acceptance speech, Marshall said he wanted to thank the game of rugby league for helping him become who he is today.
"The game's not just about playing rugby league and having achievements, it's actually about the people you take with you along the way."
Marshall is in his first season coaching the Wests Tigers but it hasn't gone to plan so far, as they sit bottom of the NRL ladder with just five wins.
He also had some advice to young players coming through.
"I say it a lot to our players, just be who you are and be yourself. Be brave enough that if you do things differently it's OK - back yourself and work hard."
The NRL also announced its 14th 'Immortal' with former South Sydney player Ron Coote picking up the achievement.
2024 NRL Hall of Fame Inductees:
Male Players: Lionel Morgan, Les Boyd, Ben Elias, Steve Renouf, Cameron Smith, Johnathan Thurston, Billy Slater, Benji Marshall, Cooper Cronk, Greg Inglis, Sam Burgess.
Female Players: Natalie Dwyer, Katrina Fanning, Tarsha Gale, Veronica White, Karyn Murphy, Tahnee Norris.
Administrators: Ken Arthurson, John Quayle
Referees: Bill Harrigan, Col Pearce
Broadcasters: Frank Hyde, David Morrow
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