The long-lost premiership shield from Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart's playing days has been uncovered, sparking memories of the club's golden era.
Discovery of the Shield
The shield, which was awarded to the Raiders after their 1990 premiership victory, was found in a storage facility in Canberra. It had been missing for over 30 years, and its discovery has brought joy to fans and former players alike.
Ricky Stuart's Reaction
Ricky Stuart, who played halfback for the Raiders in that 1990 grand final win over the Penrith Panthers, expressed his delight at the find. He said the shield holds special memories of the team's triumph and the camaraderie among players.
“It’s a great piece of history,” Stuart said. “It brings back a lot of memories of that day and the team we had.”
The 1990 Premiership
The Raiders defeated the Panthers 18-14 in the 1990 grand final, securing their second premiership. The shield was presented to the club but was later misplaced, believed to be lost forever.
Where It Was Found
The shield was discovered by a staff member cleaning out a storage area at the Raiders' headquarters. It was wrapped in old newspapers and had been forgotten for decades.
Club officials have confirmed the shield is authentic and will be restored and displayed at the Raiders' museum.
Significance for the Club
The find comes at a time when the Raiders are celebrating their 40th anniversary. The shield serves as a reminder of the club's proud history and the legacy of players like Ricky Stuart.
Fans are expected to flock to see the shield once it is put on display. The club is planning a special event to unveil the restored shield later this year.
“This is a piece of our heritage,” a club spokesperson said. “We are thrilled to have it back.”
