'A tenacious little halfback': Titans join NRL community in remembering Paul Green

An emotional Justin Holbrook has paid tribute to rugby league identity Paul Green, who passed away today aged 49.

The former playmaker featured in 162 first grade games for five clubs; including the Sharks, Cowboys, Roosters, Eels and Broncos, before coaching 167 NRL games at the helm of North Queensland - including delivering a drought-breaking premiership title in 2015.

Finding out the sad news only moments before his weekly press conference, the Titans coach was taken aback like many upon hearing about the devastating tragedy, wanting to send his condolences to Green's family and friends after the pair briefly spent a year together at the tri-colours in 2002.

"It's horrible news. I've just found out after training and obviously I want to send my condolences to his family," Holbrook said.

"He was a tenacious little halfback and I think he was a great competitor and obviously that was evident as a coach as well.

"You could see how competitive he was and obviously won a comp with the Cowboys, so I'm sure he'll be sadly missed more than anywhere up in Townsville at the moment.

"Sadly, it's not good news for the game of rugby league and for the Green family."

Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys AM joined the chorus of tributes today from the wider rugby league community, deeply saddened by his loss.

“Paul was a brilliant player, and then became one of the few to make a very successful transition into coaching,” Mr V’landys said.

“As a player, he represented Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and Brisbane Broncos, and throughout his career had a reputation as a halfback who was as tough as he was skilful. Paul was rewarded with the Rothmans Medal in 1995.

“As a coach he led the North Queensland Cowboys to one of the most famous Grand Final victories of all time – against Brisbane Broncos in 2015.

“He represented Queensland and Australia as a player, and only last year coached the Maroons in the State of Origin series.

“I had the pleasure of sitting on the NRL Competition Committee and found Paul to be a passionate, smart and witty individual. Our condolences go to his family and to his many friends.”

The game will honour Green across Round 22 with a moment's silence, including at this Sunday's clash at Cbus Super Stadium between the Titans and Sea Eagles.