John Whittaker (rugby league) facts for kids
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Personal information
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| Full name | John Albert Whittaker | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Born | 28 March 1950 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Died | 29 September 2020 (aged 70) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Playing information
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| Position | Fullback, Wing, Centre | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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John Albert Whittaker (born 28 March 1950 – died 29 September 2020) was a famous New Zealand rugby league player. He played as a fullback, winger, or centre. John Whittaker was known for his long career. He represented both the New Zealand Kiwis and the Cook Islands on the international stage.
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John Whittaker: A Rugby League Star
John Whittaker started his rugby league journey with the Randwick club. He was a key player in their success. Randwick won several championships with him on the team. These wins happened in 1968, 1969, 1970, 1976, and 1983.
Playing for Wellington
Whittaker also played for the Wellington representative team. He played a record 73 games for Wellington. This shows how important he was to his local team.
Playing for New Zealand (The Kiwis)
John Whittaker first played for the New Zealand Kiwis in 1970. He went on to play 24 matches for the Kiwis. This included playing in four Rugby League World Cups. His international career for New Zealand lasted for 13 seasons.
An Amazing Comeback
During his career, John Whittaker faced a big challenge. He had a serious injury that kept him out of the national team for two years. But he worked hard and made a full recovery. He was able to return to the Kiwis in the early 1980s. This showed his incredible determination and spirit.
International Games and Other Teams
After his time with the Kiwis, Whittaker continued to play. He represented the Cook Islands in the 1986 Pacific Cup. This was another important part of his international career.
John Whittaker also played a special match for Warrington. He was a substitute player in their 15-12 win against the Australian team. This game took place at Wilderspool Stadium in Warrington on 11 October 1978.
A True Legend of the Game
John Whittaker's impact on rugby league was recognized in many ways. In 2012, he was named one of the New Zealand Rugby League's Legends of League. This is a very special honour for top players.
At the Wellington Rugby League's Centenary celebrations, Whittaker received even more awards. He was named their Player of the Century. He was also included in their Team of the Century. These awards show how much he was respected in the sport.
John Whittaker passed away on 29 September 2020, at the age of 70. He is remembered as a true legend of New Zealand rugby league.
