John Buttigieg (rugby league) facts for kids
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Personal information
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| Born | 9 January 1977 Townsville, Queensland, Australia |
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Playing information
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| Height | 185 cm (6 ft 1 in) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Weight | 114 kg (17 st 13 lb) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Position | Prop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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John Buttigieg, born on January 9, 1977, is a former professional rugby league player from Australia. He played as a prop (a forward position in rugby league) and was known for his strong play. John spent his entire club career with the North Queensland Cowboys. He also represented Queensland in the exciting State of Origin series.
Contents
About John Buttigieg
Early Life and Background
John Buttigieg was born in Townsville, Queensland, Australia. His family background is quite interesting, as he has both Indigenous Australian and Maltese heritage.
He started playing rugby league at a young age for the Souths Townsville junior club. John also attended Pimlico State High School. His talent was noticed early, and he was soon signed by the North Queensland Cowboys.
John's Rugby League Career
Starting Out as a Young Player
In 1994, John Buttigieg showed his skills by playing for the Queensland under-17 team. He played in the important position of prop in a game against New South Wales. The following year, in 1995, he joined the Cowboys' youth development squad, which helps young players get ready for professional rugby league.
Making His First-Grade Debut
John made his big debut in the top-level competition in 1996. This was during Round 13 of the 1996 ARL season. He played his first game against the Sydney Tigers, starting as a prop. In his first season, he played nine games, which is a great start for a new player.
Becoming a Key Player
After playing a few seasons, John became a regular player for the Cowboys in 1999. He played 17 games that year and was even given the club's "Players' Player" award. This award is special because it means his teammates thought he was the best player.
In October 1999, John had the chance to represent the Aborigines team. This team was coached by the famous Arthur Beetson. They played against the Papua New Guinea team and won a two-game series.
Playing for Queensland in State of Origin
One of the biggest highlights of John's career was playing in the State of Origin series for Queensland. This is a huge annual rugby league event where Queensland plays against New South Wales.
In 2001, John made his State of Origin debut. He even scored a try in a big 34–16 win over New South Wales. He missed one game due to an injury but returned for the final game, where Queensland won the series!
He continued to represent Queensland in 2002, playing in the first game of that year's series.
Reaching 100 Games and Retirement
In 2003, John reached a major milestone: he played his 100th first-grade game. This happened in Round 13 of the 2003 NRL season against Penrith.
Sadly, John had to announce his retirement from rugby league on August 25, 2003. This was because of a serious knee injury that caused a lot of pain and swelling. His right knee was operating "bone on bone" due to a lack of cartilage, which made it impossible to continue playing at a professional level.
Achievements and Awards
Individual Honours
- North Queensland Cowboys Players' Player: John was recognized by his teammates as the best player for the North Queensland Cowboys in 1999.
After Rugby League
After retiring from playing, John Buttigieg moved to Mount Isa. There, he coached the Mount Isa Bulls rugby league team for one year. Unfortunately, the club later closed down.
