The Canberra Raiders are saddened to hear of the passing of Raider #149, premiership winning player Quentin Pongia.
Pongia passed away this morning in New Zealand after a long battle with Cancer.
Pongia played 74 matches for the Raiders from 1993-1997 and was a key component of the Raiders 1994 Premiership team playing at Prop. He also represented his country New Zealand in 35 Test Matches.
In total, Pongia played 137 matches during his NRL career from 1993-2003 for the Raiders, Warriors, Roosters and Dragons, while also playing for two seasons in the English Super League with Wigan.
Following his retirement from professional rugby league Pongia spent time with the Raiders as a member of the clubs coaching staff and was most recently working for Manly as part of their coaching staff.
Raiders Coach and former teammate Ricky Stuart said the club was deeply saddened to hear of his passing and remembered him as not only a rugby league star but also as a wonderful man.
"From my personal relationship, and behalf of the current playing group, i'd like to pass on my sincere condolences to Quentin's family in this tough time," Stuart said. "Like a number of players who played with him, I have nothing but respect and a wonderful friendship with Quentin and although it saddens me to hear of the news, it comforts me to know he has no pain now.
"Quentin is the toughest individual I have ever played with and I know how hard he fought to beat this terrible disease. He will be sorely missed right across the rugby league community."
The Raiders will hold a moments silence at this evenings match and wear black armbands in memory of Raider #149 Quentin Pongia.
