The Parramatta Eels are saddened to hear of the passing of former Eels first grade player Blair Kurtz this week. Blair was a former Under 23 premiership player who played for the Club between 1984 and 1987. He made two first grade appearance in 1986 and 1987 and has an official Eels player number is #431. He came off the bench twice to play first grade:
1. May 25th 1986, round 12, 28 - 18 win over Canberra
2. August 23rd 1987, round 25, 34 - 16 win over St George
Blair was raised in Toongabbie and was a local Parramatta junior who worked his way through the junior representative squads to Eels senior grades during one of the strongest periods in the Clubs playing history. In addition to being a talented sportsman, Blair was strong academically gaining entry to James Ruse Agricultural High School and eventually graduating with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from the University of Sydney.
Post his footballing career, Blair had a successful career as vet both in the greyhound industry and more recently as co-owner of the Quakers Hill Veterinary Hospital. His work at the veterinary hospital made him a popular and well-known figure within the Quakers Hill community.
In July 2015, while training for a half marathon, Blair was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Motor Neurone Disease and last Sunday he tragically passed away at home.
In consultation with Blair’s family, the Club will tonight wear black armbands as a tribute to our former player.
Everyone at the Parramatta Eels would like to pass on their deepest condolences to Blair’s wife Kim, daughter Rachael and son Aaron.
