The Warrior

Over six feet tall, built like a brick outhouse, with power, pace and superb passing skills, Jeff Grayshon was destined to be a rugby league star the moment he picked up the oval ball. Establishing himself as a young second-row forward in the iconic Dewsbury side that lifted the Championship in 1973, Jeff headed down under for a season in Australia with Cronulla, before joining the great Bradford Northern side in 1978. Under coach Peter Fox and playing at prop forward he immediately became a pivotal member in an outstanding Bradford team that lifted the Regal Trophy and the Championship twice in back-to-back seasons. On the international front, Jeff's club form had not gone unnoticed as he was selected for the 1979 Tour down under where, demonstrating his skills and power, he gained the first of 13 Great Britain caps. In 1985, now a senior at 36, Jeff transferred to Leeds and, despite his years, he became the inspirational front man in the Loiners' superb performing pack before returning to Bradford two years later.
Unfortunately catastrophe stuck in that season at Odsal when a badly broken leg looked to have ended Jeff's career but against all expectations, the great man recovered and started the 1988-89 season in fine form at Featherstone Rovers. In 1991, Jeff moved on to Batley where he continued to make an impact playing until he retired in 1995 at the veteran age of 45 and receiving the MBE for his services to the game. Written by former GB coach Maurice Bamford, this is the story of Jeff Grayson, a powerful, skilled player and a true rugby league warrior.