It is with deep sadness that the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs advise of the sudden passing of Club legend Paul Langmack.
A Club great and a catalyst for success throughout the 1980s era, Langmack joined the Bulldogs in 1983 and quickly established himself as a tough and uncompromising presence in the forward pack.
Across eight seasons at the Club, he played 174 first-grade games, winning three Premierships in 1984, 1985 and 1988.
Langmack played 10 Tour matches for Australia, represented NSW in four State of Origin matches and featured for NSW City across a glittering career at Belmore.
A fearless leader, Langmack took up captaincy of the Club on 13 occasions, with his durability seeing him play a Club record 84 consecutive first-grade games.
After departing the Club at the end of 1990, Langmack continued his first-grade career at Western Suburbs and the Sydney City Roosters, retiring at the end of the 1999 season.
In his post-playing career, he took on coaching appointments at the Wests Tigers in an assistant role, before becoming Head Coach of South Sydney in 2003 and 2004.
Langmack was also nominated for the Berries to Bulldogs 70 Year Team of Champions in 2004 and was awarded Life Membership of the Football Club in 2011 for his contributions as both a player and ambassador.
Remembered as a vivacious character, Langmack’s presence lit up every room he walked into, whether a change room before a big match, or an auditorium for a Club event.
Bulldogs General Manager of Football Phil Gould AM paid tribute to Langmack and the impact he had on those around him.
“I am devastated to learn of Paul’s sudden passing this morning,” he said.
“Paul would contact me every day of the week about something to do with rugby league. I’m going to miss those calls and messages.
“I’m particularly devastated for his sister Diane, who has been my personal assistant for the past 15 years.
“Paul worked with the NSWRL for many years supporting the game. In recent times he volunteered his time to so many Bulldogs community initiatives.
“He was a larger-than-life character. Paul was energetic, bubbly and enthusiastic.
“He loved his rugby league. He was so loyal to his many teammates and ex coaches over the years. He loved them all.
“Paul also started many mental health support programs to help young kids, plus both current and former players.
“He was always thinking of other people. This is a significant loss to so many.
“A true Bulldog.”
The Club wishes to pay their respects and deepest sympathies to the Langmack family, friends and former teammates during this difficult time.
