SCONE Thoroughbreds president Tom Hagan paid the late Don "Bandy" Adams the ultimate compliment, labelling the rugby league star an "icon" of the game.
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Born in Maitland in 1934, the former Australian Test star passed away in Scone last week.
His funeral took place on Tuesday, with his beloved Thoroughbreds forming a guard of honour at the Scone Catholic Church.
The Greater Northern Tigers' four representative sides also wore black armbands in Mr Adams' honour during the Country Championships on Saturday.
"Based on what Bandy did - on and off the field, his influence on local league and the Scone club is mind-blowing," Mr Hagan said.
"Even when he departed Maitland, after enjoying a lot of success, he led the Gloucester Magpies to four consecutive titles.
"Then he arrived in town and lifted the trophy in 1969 and 1970.
"And, it's not only what he achieved [by winning premierships].
"His sons and grandsons have played the code, too.
"I don't think the Thoroughbreds would ever be able to repay him.
"The grandstand at Scone Park is named after Don 'Bandy' Adams.
"He's a Life Member of the Thoroughbreds, Maitland Pickers and Magpies as well.
"I think that feat's pretty rare."
Mr Hagan said Mr Adams was renowned in the region for being a "gentleman".
"I got to know Bandy really well, due to my friendship with his grandsons Josh Adams and Adam Clydsdale," he explained.
"He was a terrific bloke.
"I've never heard a bad word about him.
"Given all he achieved in the game, he remained very humble.
"He was happy to help young players and generous with his time.
"Over the past decade, Bandy was a regular at our home games, popping into the dressing shed and offering some advice on how to beat the opposition.
"He'll be sadly missed, that's for sure.
"The club will have a minute's silence for him, when the season starts.
"But, we'll also organise some large-scale recognition of Bandy during the year."
Mr Adams represented NSW Country Firsts in 1955-56 before gaining selection in the 1956 NSW and Australian teams.
He played five Tests for his country, scoring five tries and was named man of the match in one against Great Britain at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
He also took the field for NSW on nine occasions, posting nine tries for his state and two for Country Firsts.
