Bulldogs skipper James Graham has opened up about the loss of good friend and fan favourite Josh Reynolds at season’s end.
The five-eighth will leave the club to take up a four year deal with the Wests Tigers and after forging a friendship that began in 2012, the captain was sad to hear the news, but understood that it’s a part of sport.
“I was very disappointed. I understand that it’s part of sport these days. I was very sad to hear the news,” said Graham.
Reynolds arrived at Belmore on Wednesday morning to break the news to his teammates, a decision Graham knew was coming.
“I knew it was coming. I spoke to him before he told the boys and while we were concentrating on the video in the team meeting, in the back of my mind I knew it was coming. It was hard for Josh to speak, but it’s a natural thing because of how much he loves this club and how much he loves playing for us,” added Graham.
The skipper first arrived at Belmore in 2012 and immediately developed a great friendship with Reynolds and while he may be moving on, the 31-year old knows their bond will still be there.
“He’s been a very good friend of mine for the last six years. I don’t think that bond will go away and while I won’t see him every day, I’m thinking we’ll still be good friends,” Graham said.
The five-eighth will be sorely missed on and off the field.
He is well loved by the playing group, members and the fans. He has made an enormous contribution to the community and despite the decision, he will always be a Bulldog.
“He gets out there and is amongst it more than anyone I have seen. There is going to be some holes to fill in all aspects, not just playing roster, but stuff we do as a club away from Belmore. He is a local boy, but although he is moving on to pastures new, he will always be a Bulldog,” said Graham.
With the decision made, Reynolds along with his teammates, will now turn the focus to the footy field and make sure the team finishes the year off strongly.
“It is important for the club and myself that we focus everything on the team playing good football and finishing the season strongly,” added Reynolds.
