The Canberra Raiders have today paid tribute to Raider #43 Sam Backo, who has passed away aged 64 following a battle with illness.
A proud Warrgamay and South Sea Island man, Backo played 115 first grade matches for the Raiders from 1983-1988 and represented both Queensland and Australia.
Backo was also part of the Raiders' 1987 team, which was the first in club history to reach the grand final.
A fierce competitor on the field, Backo has been remembered fondly for his off-field personality and warmth, with Raiders Patron John McIntyre paying tribute to Backo on behalf of the club today.
“He was a larger-than-life character and when he spoke, what he said was exactly what he meant,” McIntyre said. “We originally tried to get Sam to come down to Canberra to be part of the first Raiders team in 1982, but he wasn’t ready to come to Canberra.”
“He ended up down here playing for the Valley Statesmen in the local competition and at the start of the 1983 season he walked into Coach Don Furner’s office and said I’m here to play for the Raiders.”
“Sam was one of the first few players to play 100 games for the club, and to do it in the front row in those days was immense. I know he loved his time at the Raiders and often spoke about his memories of playing for the club. He was also extremely proud to represent both Queensland and Australia.
“The Raiders would like to pass on their condolences to all of Sam’s family and friends including his wife Chrissy, his six children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.”
The Raiders will pay tribute to Raider #43 Sam Backo during this weeks Indigenous Round match against the Sea Eagles on Friday night at GIO Stadium Canberra by wearing black armbands and holding a moment’s silence before the game.
