Tributes paid to former Great Britain international David Stephenson, aged 63
Photo courtesy of Wigan Warriors
Former Great Britain international David Stephenson has sadly passed away, aged 63.
Born in Lytham St Annes, Stephenson switched codes from rugby union to rugby league. He spent four seasons with Salford at the Willows, where he would represent Lancashire and Great Britain Under-24s.
He went on to join Wigan, scoring a brace of tries and a drop-goal on his Wigan debut in a 20-12 victory over St Helens in the Challenge Cup.
Stephenson won 12 trophies with Wigan, including one Premiership, one League title, two Challenge Cups and the 1987 World Club Challenge.
He kicked four goal kicks which secure the 1987 World Club Challenge against Manly.
He spent seven seasons with Wigan, playing 214 games, scoring 71 tries and converting 286 goals.
The centre joined Leeds in 1998 for £75,000, where he enjoyed two seasons, making 36 appearances. He crossed for five tries and kicked 89 goals.
He would go on to play on for Leigh and Salford for a second time.
Stephenson represented Great Britain, winning 10 caps.
Shaun Wane pays tribute
Former team-mate Shaun Wane told Wigan’s website: “This news has made me so sad. Dave Stephenson looked after me as a young kid as I was getting into the first team at Wigan. I will never forget the way he treated people no matter who you were, he made everyone feel special. He was a really good bloke.”
Leeds Rhinos added: “On behalf of everyone at the club, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to David’s family and friends at this sad time.”
It was with much sadness that the club learned today of the passing of former player David Stephenson, aged 63.
On behalf of all at the club, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to David's family and friends at this sad time
➡ Obituary https://t.co/wRnxSD5Mzx pic.twitter.com/CSO8mjciDd— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) March 15, 2022
READ MORE: Hull host Johnny Whiteley memorial
