Rabbitohs to Honor Nathan Merritt Amid Cancer Battle at Good Friday Match
Former South Sydney Rabbitohs player Nathan Merritt, 42, is scheduled to be honored by the club during their annual Good Friday match against the Canterbury Bulldogs. Merritt, who was diagnosed with stage 4 oesophageal cancer in November and liver cancer in February, will ring the club's Legacy Bell at Accor Stadium. The club is organizing fundraising efforts to support Merritt and his family as he undergoes chemotherapy treatments.
Tribute and Health Update
Nathan Merritt, a father of five, will be recognized by the South Sydney Rabbitohs during their Good Friday fixture. He is currently battling stage 4 cancer, with diagnoses of oesophageal cancer in November and liver cancer in February. Merritt has commenced chemotherapy, completing two rounds, with a third round scheduled as part of a planned five rounds before doctors re-evaluate his condition.
"Merritt has stated his commitment to fighting the cancer for his children and remaining strong and positive for them, expressing gratitude for the club's support and the opportunity to be part of the game."
This current health situation follows a recovery in 2023 after he was placed on life support due to an adverse reaction to prescription medication. The Rabbitohs are organizing support for Merritt and his family, which includes a 50-50 charity raffle during Friday's match and a luncheon, aimed at assisting with medical expenses and future security.
Merritt's Enduring Legacy
Merritt is a significant figure in the Rabbitohs' history. He played 218 of his 237 first-grade games for the club, retiring in 2014. During his career, he became the Rabbitohs' all-time leading try-scorer with 146 tries, a record that has since been surpassed by Alex Johnston. Following his retirement, Merritt remained involved with Souths Cares and established his own charity, the Nathan Merritt Foundation.
The Good Friday Match: A Long-Standing Rivalry
The Good Friday match, an annual fixture between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Canterbury Bulldogs, was established in 2007. It is known for attracting large supporter bases. Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly noted the game's growth and both clubs' benefit from shared gate revenue. The match is expected to draw over 50,000 fans to Accor Stadium.
Historically, South Sydney secured six consecutive victories in this fixture from 2018 to 2024. However, Canterbury recorded a significant 32-0 win last season in front of a crowd of 65,305. Bulldogs utility Kurt Mann acknowledged the significance of the occasion, while Rabbitohs forward Keaon Koloamatangi recounted attending the 2015 match as a Canterbury fan.