NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS MOURN THE TRAGIC DEATH OF ONE OF THEIR FOUNDING STARS ROBERT PVA AFTER HE PASSED AWAY AGED JUST 58
- Played a major role in the expansion of the NRL in 1995
- Was selected to represent his nation in a decorated career
- Has been remembered for his big heart and protective nature
The rugby league community is mourning the loss of foundation North Queensland Cowboys player Robert Piva, who passed away suddenly on March 24 at the age of 58.
Cowboy No.31, Piva played a significant role in the side's inaugural season in the Australian Rugby League (ARL) in 1995, and is being remembered fondly by the club as a 'fearsome front-rower'.
'The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are saddened by the passing of inaugural squad member Robert Piva,' the club said in a statement.
'We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family.'
The New Zealand Rugby League also honoured Piva, recognising him as 'a rugged and determined forward whose impact went beyond his playing years'.
'New Zealand Rugby League extends heartfelt condolences to Robert's family, friends, and all who had the privilege of playing alongside him,' the NZRL said in a statement. 'His contributions to the game will not be forgotten.'
Piva's daughter, Fetu, shared an emotional tribute, highlighting her father's profound impact on family and community outside of footy.
'Rob was known for his unwavering commitment, deep-rooted sense of community, and old-school attitude toward life,' she wrote.
'A protector and backbone to all who loved him, Rob could be counted on in the toughest of times, offering support, wisdom, and a genuine presence.'
She described her father's boundless love for family and his contagious laugh that 'filled any room,' adding that his legacy lives on in the many lives he enriched.
Former teammate Paul Anthony also expressed deep sorrow at the news, writing: 'Much love USO [brother], it was an honour playing against you then with you. Also working with you. May you rest USO. I will always remember your smile and funny remarks.'
Born on November 4, 1966, Piva began his senior rugby league career with St. George club in Wellington, playing from 1985 to 1987.
He moved to Randwick in 1988, continuing his strong performances until 1990, before playing for Porirua City from 1991 to 1993.
Representing Wellington on 40 occasions, Piva made notable appearances against international teams including Australia and Great Britain.
His consistent form led to his selection for the New Zealand Kiwis' 1993 tour of Great Britain and France, making his Test debut in a victory against Wales in Swansea.
However, an eye-socket fracture cut short his international participation after one Test and six additional matches.
In 1994, Piva joined the Taranaki Rockets in the inaugural Lion Red Cup, making 14 appearances and scoring four tries.
Later that year, he signed with Wakefield Trinity in England, playing 18 matches and scoring three tries.
After his time with Wakefield, he became part of the foundation squad of the North Queensland Cowboys, debuting against the Newcastle Knights and playing nine matches in their maiden ARL season in 1995.
Despite not featuring on the field, he was selected in the Western Samoa squad for the 1995 Rugby League World Cup, representing Samoa at the Super League World Nines tournament in Fiji in 1996.
His passion for the game continued into his later career, with Piva playing for Porirua Pumas in New Zealand's Bartercard Cup in 2001.
Read more 2025-03-24T23:58:40Z