Scottish league legend Stan Cowan passes away

The Scotland Rugby League has confirmed that one of the game’s greatest Scots, Stan Cowan, has died at the age of 83, following a short illness.

Cowan, a native of the the Borders, followed his father Jimmy’s path into rugby league from rugby union.

Jimmy Cowan signed for Hull FC in 1926, while Stan joined the same club in 1954.

Stan, who also represented the South of Scotland at rugby union before jumping codes, was a winger who scored 66 tries in 163 appearances over 12 years for Hull.

He played in the team’s two losing Challenge Cup finals at Wembley in 1959 and 1960. Although the Black and Whites lost to Wigan and Wakefield, Stan scored Hull’s only try in the latter game.

Stan’s older brother, Ron, also moved to rugby league from union, joining Leeds from Selkirk RUFC in 1962. The brothers would later play together for Hull.

Both brothers were among the Scottish league greats who were introduce to the crowd during Scotland‘s European Championship clash at Netherdale in Galashiels with France last year.

“This is very sad news,” said Scotland RL chairman Keith Hogg.

“He was a very special man. It was great to meet both Stan and Ron at Netherdale last October.

“It was a wonderful event and a privilege to be able to celebrate the achievements of our ex-players.

“The reception that they received from the crowd was very special. Scotland Rugby League pass their condolences to Stan’s family and friends at this difficult time.”