Bob Hagan’s wife, Laurel, had reportedly passed away before him in 2024, and their two sons survived him.
A prominent figure in Rugby league, Bob Hagan was a legendary figure, particularly known for his association with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.
Born on January 8, 1940, he was the only person in the club’s history to have played first grade, coached, and served as CEO.
Hagan’s playing career began in Queensland, where he first made his mark representing the state in 1961 while playing for Townsville.
His career with the Bulldogs began in 1967. He played 45 first-grade games for the club and captained the side 11 times.
He also represented New South Wales and played for Queensland and Australia in the early 1960s.
After playing, Hagan returned to the Bulldogs as a coach for the 1971 and 1972 seasons, achieving a 52% winning record.
He later became the club’s CEO from 1996 to 2002. Hagan was also the inaugural president of the Gold Coast Giants.
Tragically, Hagan passed away at the age of 85 on 25 February 2025 in the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.
As of now, the exact cause of his death has not been confirmed, whether it was due to illness, natural causes, or another factor.
Bob Hagan Passed Away Nearly a Month After Celebrating His 85th Birthday In January 2025!
Hagan is survived by his sons, Damian and Justin, following the death of his wife, Laurel, in late 2024.
However, specific details about Laurel’s profession and career are not widely available in the public domain.
It’s known that Bob and Laurel were married for a significant portion of his life. The pair raised two sons together who survived him.
The rugby league community and Bob Hagan’s family deeply mourn his loss. However, his sons or other relatives have not made a public statement yet.
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs expressed their condolences, saying,
The Bulldogs wish to pay their respects to Bob. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
The club and fans are paying their respects to Hagan, a significant figure in the Bulldogs’ history.
The Bulldogs are mourning the loss of former player, coach and CEO Bob Hagan who passed away.
— The League Scene (@LeagueScenePod) February 25, 2025
Hagan played 45 games and coached the club in the early 1970s. He was also the president of the inaugural Gold Coast club in 1988 before acting as CEO of the Bulldogs from 1996 to 2003.
The community, including former players, coaches, and fans, shared their memories and respect for Hagan.
Our heartfelt condolences to Bob Hagan’s family, friends, and admirers.
Rest In Peace, Legend!
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Bob Hagan’s younger brother, Michael Hagan, is also notable in the Australian rugby league.
- Michael coached the Parramatta Eels from 2007 to 2008.
- In April 2012, he was inducted into the Newcastle Knights Hall of Fame.
