The story of Rod Wishart's remarkable rugby league career is a testament to the power of inspiration and resilience. In this article, I'll delve into how a simple brotherly phrase, 'Go hard,' became the mantra that fueled Wishart's success, even after the tragic loss of his brother, Derek. I'll also explore how local influences, like the Gerringong Lions and the wisdom of coaches like Mick Cronin, shaped his journey. Finally, I'll discuss how Wishart's legacy continues through his son, Tyran, and the impact of his representation of Australia on his career.
A Brother's Legacy
Rod Wishart's story begins with a simple phrase, 'Go hard.' This phrase, inspired by his late brother, Derek, became the driving force behind Wishart's success. Derek's sudden death at age 27 from an asthma attack while playing touch football in Jamberoo was a tragedy that Wishart still feels deeply. However, it was Derek's encouragement that Wishart carried with him, turning tragedy into a source of motivation.
"I always looked up to Derek, and it was a real tragedy," Wishart said. "He was the one guy before a game who gave me advice. He didn't say anything over the top; he'd just say, 'Go hard.' And I've always taken that on: whatever you do, just don't leave anything in the tank. I draw a lot of inspiration from that. From something so tragic, you can try to turn it into something good."
Local Roots, Global Reach
Wishart's journey to becoming one of the Illawarra Steelers' greatest try and point scorers began in Gerringong, a small town on the South Coast of New South Wales. Growing up in a family of six, with his parents owning the Gerringong Chemist, Wishart shared a bedroom with three brothers. His early years were filled with the love of sport, with cricket in summer and rugby league in winter.
The local Gerringong Lions rugby league side, where Parramatta great Mick Cronin was a coach, provided Wishart with a strong foundation. Cronin's wisdom and mentorship, combined with the supportive environment of Gerringong, inspired Wishart to pursue his dreams. As he said, "I’m lucky enough to be brought up in a beautiful place like Gerringong, so close to Sydney but such a small little place. They all love their sport – cricket in summer, footy in winter – and I surfed all year round."
The Representative Career
Wishart's talent caught the eye of the Illawarra Steelers, who signed him in 1989. He played 154 first-grade games for the club, becoming their greatest try and point scorer. His success at the club level led to representative honors, including 22 caps for NSW and 17 games for the Kangaroos. Wishart's ability to perform at the highest level was particularly notable during his time representing Australia, where he played 17 Tests under the guidance of Manly legend Bob Fulton.
"I feel like I played my best football playing for Australia," Wishart said. "In 1994, there was a Kangaroo tour, and Australia got beaten in the first Test. Bozo [Fulton] felt like he needed to make a couple of changes, and I was one of them. I didn’t let him down, the team didn’t let him down, and we went on to win the next two games. I look back and feel like playing for Australia is the pinnacle."
A Legacy Continues
Wishart's professional career ended with the St George Illawarra Dragons' grand final defeat to the Melbourne Storm in 1999. Despite the setback, he has since moved on to a new chapter in his life, with his son, Tyran, making his NRL debut for the Melbourne Storm in 2022. Tyran's success is a testament to the hard work and attitude that Wishart instilled in him.
"It’s all about hard work, attitude, and doing all the simple things right," Wishart said about his son's journey. "The thing I’m proud about is that he went through all the highs and lows, and there were a few speed humps and hoops to jump through."
The Wishart legacy continues through Tyran, and the family connection to rugby league is further solidified through Rod's daughter, Riley, who is married to Manly's Reuben Garrick. Rod was on-hand to present Tyran with his debut jersey, and it didn't take long for him to feel like he belonged in the NRL.
In conclusion, Rod Wishart's career is a testament to the power of inspiration and the ability to turn tragedy into triumph. His story serves as a reminder that sometimes, the simplest phrases can have the most profound impact, and that local influences can shape a global legacy.
