In a heartfelt tribute to one of their foundational figures, the Penrith Panthers have honored Grahame Moran with a bronze statue, commemorating his significant contributions to the club and the sport of rugby league.
### A Foundational Figure in Panthers History
Grahame Moran, hailing from Taree, New South Wales, was among the original players for the Panthers, joining the team in its inaugural 1967 season. Over his career spanning from 1967 to 1974, Moran made 121 first-grade appearances, scoring 25 tries and 4 goals, amassing a total of 83 points. Notably, he became the first Penrith player to achieve 100 first-grade appearances for the club in 1973. ([Wikipedia][1], [The Mighty Panthers][2])
Moran’s prowess on the field earned him representative honors, including selection for City Seconds in 1968 and New South Wales in 1970, making him the first Penrith player to achieve such recognition. ([The Mighty Panthers][2])
### Celebrating a Legacy
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Moran was named at center in the Panthers’ 40th Anniversary Team of Legends in 2006. Further cementing his legacy, he was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame in 2016, alongside other Panthers greats Royce Simmons, Greg Alexander, and Craig Gower. ([The Mighty Panthers][2], [Penrith Panthers][3])
### The Bronze Tribute
The unveiling of Moran’s bronze statue stands as a testament to his enduring impact on the club and the community. The statue not only honors his achievements on the field but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of players and fans alike.
As the Panthers continue to build upon their rich history, tributes like this ensure that the contributions of pioneers like Grahame Moran are remembered and celebrated.
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