Here’s a polished news-style write-up highlighting Matt Peet’s heartfelt tribute to Sir Billy Boston:
Matt Peet hails Sir Billy Boston as “gentleman” and rugby inspiration after historic knighthood
WIGAN — Wigan Warriors head coach Matt Peet has delivered a gracious and deeply touching tribute to Sir Billy Boston, calling the rugby league legend a “gentleman” and expressing what a privilege it is to call him a friend, following Boston’s knighthood as the first-ever rugby league player to receive the honour.
Speaking on Tuesday, immediately after Sir Billy received his KBE at Buckingham Palace, Peet said:
> “Not just for Billy, not just for Wigan, but for the game of rugby league to get its first knighthood is great news. It’s more than deserved and hopefully there’s more to come for rugby league and for the north of England.”
Peet noted that although he never saw Boston play, fans who did insist he was the greatest they’d witnessed. He praised Boston’s conduct both on and off the pitch
> “He’s an iconic figure, an iconic name in our club, and the way he’s conducted himself beyond playing… he’s just a gentleman. To consider him a friend is a privilege.”
Describing Sir Billy’s calm, supportive presence at the club, Peet said he remembered being greeted more with a handshake and affable humility than any grand speech—yet acknowledged how powerful that influence can be. “He’s constantly around the group and the club… he is certainly part of the team at Wigan.”
Reflecting on Boston’s trailblazing career, Peet emphasized the lessons that resonate today: Boston, overcoming racism and class prejudice in the 1950s, let his play speak for itself, paving the way for future generations. “Billy certainly falls into that category in terms of being an unstoppable force.”
Peet also celebrated the wider significance of this milestone
> “You’ve got number one now, and Billy is a fitting recipient… You hope it paves the way for others… Kev (Sinfield) has been mentioned, rightly so.”
The coach’s warm, sincere words reflect Boston’s storied legacy—containing a club-record 478 tries in 488 appearances for Wigan and numerous international honours. His knighthood is the first in rugby league’s 130-year history, acknowledging the profound impact of a man who transcended sport.
This touching tribute from Peet not only celebrates Sir Billy’s lifetime of achievement but also emphasizes how his character continues to inspire the current generation at Wigan and across the north of England—including those who guide the team today.
Leave a Reply