Former Newcastle Knights and Catalans Dragons forward Scott Dureau has died aged 39 after a long battle with brain cancer. The former rugby league star has been battling the disease for more than a decade after doctors found a tumor behind his eye in 2013.Dureau was praised not only for his performance on the field but also for the courage he showed in his healthy fight. Despite undergoing several surgeries and undergoing devastating medical changes over the years, she continued to fight with determination. His death marks a tragic loss to the sport and to all who knew him.
Scott Dureau is reminded that Rugby League pays tribute
Scott Dureau began his rugby career with the Newcastle Knights, where he played 42 NRL matches between 2007 and 2010. The Taree-born player later joined the Catalans Dragons in the Super League, becoming one of the most popular players. Between 2011 and 2015, he played 97 games and established himself as the team’s first choice player.His actions won the hearts of many people. Dureau was named in the Super League Dream Team in 2011 and 2012. He also represented the Exiles, a side made up of the best foreign players who compete in England, appearing in two annual league matches against England.In 2013, Dureau’s career took an unexpected turn when doctors discovered a tumor behind his eye. He underwent surgery to remove it and tried to get back on the field. However, failing health eventually forced him to retire from rugby at the end of the 2015 season.His battle did not end there. In 2018, the tumor came back and required another operation. Doctors later discovered that the cancer had spread to his liver, and he was given only 18 months to live. Despite the difficulties, Dureau continued to receive treatment. He was later cleared, giving hope to his family and supporters.Unfortunately, the disease started again in January 2023. A medical examination revealed five new tumors in the brain. This led to another major operation. Dureau continued to fight the disease very bravely before his death this week.After retirement, Dureau remained involved in rugby league. He joined the Newcastle Knights coaching staff and worked with the club until the end of the 2021 season, helping to develop the next generation of players.Catalans Dragons led the tribute after confirming his death. The club said everyone associated with the team was deeply saddened by the loss of a player who had shown incredible courage throughout his illness. The statement added that Dureau will be remembered not only for his athletic accomplishments but also for his kindness, humility, and kindness to those around him. The group also expressed its heartfelt condolences to his wife, Libby, their daughters Imogen and Everly, and the rest of his family at this difficult time.