24 October 2024
New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) sadly mourns the passing of Kevin Bailey, a beloved pioneer of rugby league who leaves behind a lasting mark on the game in Aotearoa.
Bailey passed away peacefully on Monday 21 October.
A well-respected stalwart of the game, Bailey was a dedicated player, referee, administrator, and influential figure in rugby league for over seven decades, which saw him awarded Life Membership to Auckland Rugby League, Auckland Rugby League Referees Association, and New Zealand Rugby League.
Bailey first found rugby league as a child playing for the Marist Saints before joining the Mt. Albert Lions as a teenager where he was a standout open-side prop. His love for the game flourished, leading him to later play for the Glenora Bears and the New Lynn Stags where he also served as a Committee Member making significant and lasting contributions to the club.
Upon retiring from playing Bailey commenced his officiating career and through years of work gaining experience, he became an expert in the realm of officiating and regulation. Bailey served on the Auckland Rugby League (ARL) Appeals Panel and as the ARL Judicial Chair, he upheld the highest standards of integrity overseeing disciplinary matters with impartiality.
In 1994 Bailey became one of the first NZRL employees as the National Referees Manager, which saw him elevate officiating standards and provide mentorship crucial in developing, growing, and retaining referees. As his career progressed Bailey was instrumental in the inception of renowned national competitions including the Bartercard Cup, Pacific Cup, and the New Zealand National Secondary Schools Tournament.
Arguably, Bailey’s greatest contribution to NZRL was his extensive work in rugby league policy development, constitutional amendments, and the creation of by-laws. His efforts raised the game’s standards by ensuring that all operational and competitive aspects were governed by fair and consistent regulations. Bailey’s expertise in these areas created a solid foundation for the sport by promoting integrity, safety, and bettering the overall structure and quality of rugby league.
Bailey was also a member of the NZRL Museum Committee where he contributed to safeguarding the rich history of the game, ensuring the preservation of rugby league heritage for generations to come.
New Zealand Rugby League recognised Bailey’s outstanding contributions by awarding him the Distinguished Service Award in 2014. In June this year Bailey was awarded NZRL Life Membership and the highly prestigious Sport New Zealand Sir Eion and Jan, Lady Edgar Lifetime Achievement Award, testament to his lifelong dedication to the game.
Kevin Bailey was the dear husband to wife Ku and loved father and grandfather.
New Zealand Rugby League CEO Greg Peters says, “We sadly mourn the passing of Kevin Bailey and offer our deepest condolences to his family on his passing.
“His service to New Zealand Rugby League for the past 30 years and the wider game of rugby league for over 70 years, was nothing short of incredible.
“He leaves behind an indelible mark on rugby league in Aotearoa. The loss of Kevin will be felt by many, our thoughts and prayers are with all those who mourn him, kia kaha.”
Kevin Bailey will be fondly remembered as a passionate innovator and devoted pioneer who helped shape the sport of rugby league in New Zealand.
Moe mai i roto i te Ariki e te rangatira
