A message from Danny Houghton following the passing of Johnny Whiteley MBE.
When I first met Johnny, he had a beaming smile on his face and that was no different the last time I saw him.
I always loved seeing Johnny out and about, especially when he used to come down to the training ground to watch us. He would always chat to anybody he came across, no matter how well or little he actually knew them. That’s how approachable and friendly he was as a man. And I think that’s where the term ‘Gentleman John’ came from.
As much as I and the rest of the English lads loved hearing his stories, I actually think those who came from overseas enjoyed his tales more, because they were able to learn about the heritage of Hull FC and the city itself. The Aussie and Kiwi boys that we’ve had at the club have certainly shown Johnny the respect he deserves during my time at the club. And I can speak on behalf of myself and say that Johnny has my eternal respect for what he has done for not only Hull FC, but the city of Hull and the sport of Rugby League as a whole.
The legacy that Johnny leaves behind, I would say, is unprecedented. The statistic of never being dropped in his playing career tells you what kind of a player he was for Hull and he earned the status of the greatest-ever player for the club, which is definitely no mean feat when you look at some of the players that have come through the doors here. But when you talk about Johnny’s legacy, I think that relates more to his post-playing career. The amount of time, effort and energy he pumped into Rugby League after retiring as a player is nothing short of incredible and, for that, the level of respect I have for the man is just off the charts.
Down at our training ground, we have a dynasty board on the wall with a list of all of the captains that have represented Hull FC. To share that board with Johnny is a true honour and it is something I will be forever grateful for.
I was moved and heartbroken by the news of Johnny’s passing on Monday and I hope you will join us in a moment’s silence before Saturday’s game to reflect on his truly great career and life.
Rest in peace, Johnny.
Danny
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