Former Queensland State of Origin hardman Carl Webb has tragically passed away at the age of 42 after a four-year battle with motor neurone disease (MND).
During his decorated career, the enforcer notched 187 NRL games, 12 Origin appearances for the Maroons and one Test match for Australia.
Carl Webb dies after lengthy battle with motor neurone disease
Webb’s well-publicised battle with MND began in 2020, when he was diagnosed with the neurological disorder.
“I can see a big difference in the past year,” Webb said during an interview in 2021.
“I have declined a fair bit. Getting dressed in the morning is a task. I struggle to button my shirts up and pull my trousers and shorts up.
“Strength was a big thing for me, I was always strong, but now my strength is gone.”
The Mt Isa-born product started his rugby league journey as a 15-year-old when he was first scouted by Brisbane Broncos, the club he would go on to feature for 66 times.
In 2005, he made the move up to Townsville where he racked up over 100 appearances for the North Queensland Cowboys as he established himself as a feared leader up front.
The hard running forward became an icon for the Cowboys, before he eventually retired in 2011 after one season with Parramatta.
NRL world pays respects to Carl Webb
Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys paid his respects to Webb following the news of his death that has sent the rugby league world into mourning.
“Anyone who has come across Carl’s battle will have been touched by his bravery,” V'landys said.
“He was a fearsome player and competitor and one of the toughest forwards to play in his era. He had a physical presence and aggression which was unmatched.
“He showed every bit of that toughness following his diagnosis with MND.
“On behalf of the Commission, I extend my condolences to Carl’s family, friends, and all those who played with and knew him.”
Following his diagnosis with MND, which attacks the nerve cells that control muscle functionality, the father-of-four founded the Carl Webb Foundation to help other sufferers in the future.
Former Broncos teammate Darren Lockyer, who became an ambassador for the charity, spoke glowingly of Webb’s approach to his condition.
“It’s been so inspiring to see the way he has reacted to it,” Lockyer said.
“It’s not about him, it’s about what he can do for others and that’s his family and other people that suffer from the same condition.”
You can donate to the Carl Webb Foundation here.