The Men of League Foundation has recently collaborated with the Bulldogs & South Sydney to introduce the inaugural 'Mortimer McCarthy Cup' on July 17 (Round 18) at Accor Stadium.
The concept was created to acknowledge the contribution that Souths great Bob McCarthy and Canterbury legends Steve, Chris and Peter Mortimer have made to their clubs, to rugby league and to the Men of League.
Both sides will run out with members of the McCarthy and Mortimer families on either side of a giant cup that will carry the names that inspired generations of players and fans alike.
A pre-match function at the stadium launching the Cup will also help raise funds for the Men of League Foundation which supports the men, women and children of the grassroots rugby league community who need physical, financial or emotional support.
During a recent photo shoot with Souths CEO Blake Solly to launch the initiative, Bulldogs CEO Aaron Warbuton spoke of his excitement for the Cup;
“Our Club is forever indebted to the services of the Mortimer family. I know Peter, Chris and Steve are humbled by the fact that this trophy is named in their honour, said Warburton.
The Mortimer McCarthy Cup is a fitting tribute to the Mortimer brothers and Bob McCarthy, who represent an era of rugby league that was tough, honest, and built on mateship.
The Cup draws much needed attention to the brilliant work the Men of League does for the wider rugby league community, and we’re proud to play a small role in the inaugural year.”
Sadly, Bob McCarthy will miss the match day launch due to a recent COVID diagnosis and will be in isolation at home. His son Darren McCarthy, who also played Souths and Canterbury, will attend and represent his father with his proud mum Judy and other members of their family. A large contingent of the Mortimer family will be travelling to Sydney Olympic Park from all parts of NSW to see Steve, Peter and Chris honoured.
“It’s fantastic to be able to recognise the enormous contributions of the McCarthy and Mortimer families by playing for the Mortimer-McCarthy Cup this Sunday,” Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly said.
“They have contributed greatly to both Club and the sport of Rugby League, on and off the field, for decades.
“Men of League have done a great job in promoting this game and recognising the legacies of both families in our game.
“We look forward to competing for the trophy named after both families each year.”
