Griffo’s Legacy Lives on at The Hills Bulls

The Hills Bulls took a page from the past to honour one of one of their much loved heroes, Paul ‘Griffo’ Griffin, as they launched their ‘Our Club, Our Legacy’ campaign last Sunday. Griffin, tragically killed last year, will be a permanent part of the Baulkham Hills club with the spanking new gym named after him.

Club president and Griffo’s great mate, Michael Gremmo, speaking at the launch, paid a rich tribute to the club legend, saying he was someone who always showed up, whenever and where ever he was needed.

Gremmo recalled they first met back in 1988 when they had won a Grade C grand final together at Crestwood Oval, the current home ground. “And from that moment on, Griffo became a part of the heartbeat of this club,” the president said.

“Today is not just about opening a gym, it’s about paying tribute to a man whose impact reached far beyond these fields,” Gremmo said. “Griffo was the kind of bloke who made things happen. He gave, not just financially, but through countless hours of his time, through mentorship, through sheer grit and generosity.

“Griffo’s beloved family honoured his wish on his passing, and he became an organ donor, something he was so supportive of. The gift of life – what a wonderful gift.” Coincidentally, Griffo’s horse Aprapaho blitzed his rivals enroute to winning the Sydney Cup on Saturday.

Gremmo said Griffo’s legacy will live on through the gym, which stands for his hard work, commitment and building something bigger than one’s self.

Turning to ‘Our Club, Our Legacy’ campaign, Gremmo said their goal is to raise $350,000 to complete the Hills Bulls clubhouse at Crestwood Oval, saying: “In true Bulls determination, we will make this happen…. This will be a true home for our club, where players, families and volunteers can connect, celebrate and grow.”

He thanked the Federal and State Members of Parliament, including Alex Hawke, Ray Williams, and Mark Hodges, The Hills Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne, deputy mayor Frank De Massi, and the councillors, NSWRL CEO David Trodden, life members, founding members (including his Dad and Col), and members of the Griffin family.

“Thank you to the Griffin family for sharing Paul with us, and allowing us to honour him in a way that reflects everything he stood for,” Gremmo said. “So, thank you Griffo, you have left an amazing legacy that will live on.”