Remembering Terry Hill: Three Memorable Sledging Moments

The rugby league community is mourning the loss of former champion Terry Hill, who passed away at the age of 52. Hill was not only known for his fierce will-to-win on the field but also for his exceptional sledging skills that left opposition players rattled. Here are three of his most memorable sledging moments that will forever be etched in rugby league history.

One of Hill’s standout moments came in a game against the New Zealand Warriors in 2005. Hill was relentless in his verbal attacks on Warriors centre Clinton Toopi, who was visibly agitated and humiliated by Hill’s sledging. Toopi was eventually replaced just before halftime, with Hill taunting him by saying, “You’ve been sucked in by an old man.” Former Manly official Peter Peters recalled Hill’s ruthless sledging that day, comparing him to the legendary Bob Fulton in terms of his sledge game.

In another match against Brisbane in the mid-1990s, Hill was tasked with unsettling Broncos centre Steve Renouf, also known as ‘Pearl’. Hill wasted no time in getting under Renouf’s skin, with former teammate Steve Menzies remembering how Hill relentlessly sledged Renouf for the entire game. Hill’s ability to follow pre-game instructions and execute them on the field made him a valuable asset to his team.

Hill’s verbal prowess was not limited to his on-field performances. During a game against Wests, Hill targeted Paul Langmack with a clever jab, causing Langmack to recall how Hill’s words left an impact long after the game had ended. Hill’s passion, determination, and aggression on the field were unmatched, making him one of the best centres in the world at the peak of his career.

As the rugby league community pays tribute to Terry Hill, his legacy as a fierce competitor and master sledger will always be remembered. His family, friends, and former teammates are in the thoughts and prayers of those who had the privilege of witnessing his talent both on and off the field.