Peter Jackson (rugby league) facts for kids

Peter Jackson (born 19 May 1964 – died 5 November 1997) was an Australian professional rugby league player. He was known by his nickname 'Jacko'. Peter played rugby league in the 1980s and 1990s.

He represented both the Australian national team and the Queensland State of Origin team. Peter played as a centre (centre) or five-eighth (five-eighth). He played club football for several teams, including the Souths Magpies in Brisbane. Later, he joined teams in the New South Wales Rugby League like the Canberra Raiders, Brisbane Broncos, and North Sydney Bears. Peter also played in England for the Leeds club. After retiring in 1993, he worked in the media.

Peter Jackson's Rugby League Career

Early Days and Queensland Debut

In 1980, Peter Jackson first played rugby union for the Australian schoolboys under-17s team. The next year, he switched to rugby league and played for the Australian schoolboys under-18s team. He then joined the Brisbane Rugby League premiership team, Souths Brisbane. Peter was a strong attacking player, especially as a centre or five-eighth. He was coached by Wayne Bennett.

At Souths, Peter played alongside famous players like Mal Meninga and Gary Belcher. In 1986, he made his first appearance for the Queensland team in the State of Origin series. The Queensland team was also coached by Wayne Bennett.

Moving to the NSWRL and Playing in England

In 1987, Peter followed his coach Wayne Bennett to the Canberra Raiders in the NSWRL premiership. There, he reunited with his former teammates Mal Meninga and Gary Belcher.

Peter also signed with the English rugby league club Leeds. He played for them during the 1987–88 English season. He played with other Australian players like Peter Tunks and Steve Morris. In a big game, the John Player Special Trophy Final, Peter scored a try for Leeds. However, Leeds lost that game 14–15 to St. Helens.

Grand Final and International Selection

While playing for Canberra, Peter Jackson played in the 1987 Grand Final. His team, the Raiders, lost to the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles. This was the last Grand Final played at the famous Sydney Cricket Ground.

In 1988, Peter was chosen to play for the Australian national team for the first time. Australia was playing against the Great Britain team for The Ashes. In the first match, called the Centenary Test, Peter scored two tries. Australia won that game 17–6. He played in all three matches against Great Britain and also in a game against Papua New Guinea. After this successful season, Peter left Canberra and joined the Brisbane Broncos for two years, again playing under coach Wayne Bennett.

Impact at North Sydney and Later Career

In 1991, Peter Jackson joined the North Sydney Bears. His arrival, along with other experienced players, helped the club improve a lot. The Bears had not won a championship since 1922, but with Peter, they became strong contenders. Playing as a five-eighth, Peter was a key player in the team's attack during the 1991 season. They almost reached the Grand Final but lost in the preliminary final to Canberra.

Peter was called back to play for Australia in 1991. In a game against New Zealand, he was sent off (had to leave the field) during the first half. However, Australia still won that game. Despite being sent off, he played in the next deciding game, which Australia also won.

At the end of 1991, Peter toured Papua New Guinea with the Australian team. In 1992, he continued to play well for the North Sydney Bears and for Queensland in the Origin series. He was selected for the first two Ashes Tests against Great Britain. His international career ended after Australia lost to Great Britain in the second Test in Melbourne.

In 1992, Peter Jackson also released a book called Whatd'ya Reckon!. It was full of rugby league facts and funny stories.

Legacy

Peter Jackson passed away in November 1997.

Since 2003, the Peter Jackson Memorial Trophy has been awarded each year. This trophy goes to the person, whether a player or support staff, who contributes the most to the Queensland State of Origin team. It helps remember Peter's important role in rugby league.