George Reynolds, born in Sydney in 1889, holds a prominent position in Rugby League history. Familiarly known as ‘Darky’ or ‘Ranji,’ Reynolds kickstarted his career with the South Sydney Federal junior club. On January 1, 1921, he tied the knot with Hannah Bridget Payne in Hurstville. Reynolds passed away in 1962 at the age of 72 and was laid to rest at Woronora Memorial Park in Sutherland. His legacy includes the distinction of being recognized as the first Indigenous player to compete in first-grade Rugby League, a fact authenticated by Glebe club historian Max Solling.
Reynolds’ Indigenous heritage is indisputable. The prevailing social attitudes of the time are evident in ‘The Sydney Sportsman’ newspaper, which referred to him as ‘Darky’ Reynolds. A 1914 report on the Metropolitan team labeled him as “the representative from La Perouse,” likely acknowledging his Indigenous background. During this era, widespread racism towards Indigenous Australians often led the media to downplay their achievements, especially those that challenged prevailing racial biases.
Supporting evidence comes from Reynolds’ teammate at Glebe, Laidley Burge, who distinctly remembered him as Indigenous. Initially, it was believed that George Green, who played for Eastern Suburbs and North Sydney between 1909 and 1922, was the first Indigenous player. However, historian Andrew Moore later clarified that Green hailed from West Indian descent, specifically St. Kitts, not Indigenous.
Reynolds, originating from La Perouse, commenced his career in junior leagues (Federals) and reserve grade before advancing to South Sydney’s first-grade team. In 1911, he made a solitary appearance for South Sydney. Subsequently, he joined Annandale in 1913, playing 13 games and scoring two tries, with additional appearances in the City Cup and first grade. The residential rule, with exceptions, permitted Reynolds to play for Annandale in 1913 when Souths loaned him out, affording him regular opportunities in the top grade to refine his skills. He returned to South Sydney in 1914, playing eight games, scoring one try, and kicking two goals.
Throughout his career, Reynolds featured in nine first-grade games for Souths in 1911 and 1914, scoring one try and kicking two goals. He was part of the 1914 premiership-winning team. That season, his standout performance against Glebe on a muddy field garnered attention for his prowess in the three-quarter line.
In 1917, Reynolds contributed to the second-grade premiership victory, showcasing his abilities as a five-eighth marked by exceptional pace, agility, and effective tackling. He transitioned to Annandale before joining Glebe in 1918, where he played ten games and scored three tries, followed by five games and two tries in 1919.
George Reynolds’ trailblazing role as the first Indigenous player in Rugby League underscores his skill and resilience in the face of racial adversity. His enduring contributions to the sport serve as a significant chapter in its history, inspiring future generations of Indigenous athletes.
