Superlatives are yet to be invented to describe the career and professionalism of Luke Burt. It was a bright career that started at what is now known as ANZ Stadium, in front of over 100,000 fans in 1999. It may finish there. Burt has been a mainstay of the Parramatta backline, yet rarely grabbed the headlines as many of his teammates did. He was there to do a job and to get it done well. His utility value has been indispensable over the season, featuring at fullback, centre, wing and a game at halfback. Known as a smart footballer he possessed skills that were more suited to a cunning 5/8. He had and still has superb vision and foresight.
Burt came from Newcastle in a beach side town. He was never a big player but he made up for it with his heart and passion. He embodies what it is to play for Parramatta. Due to his size many thought he either wouldn't make it to the NRL or he wouldn't last long, Burt defied those doubters. He's carved out a 14 year career in the toughest sport in the world, breaking the Parramatta try-scoring record and becoming only the 8th player in NRL history to amass more than 1700 points, putting him in elite company. As a small player he needed something in his game to cope with his lack of size. This came in his ability to read the game and his speed. Both of which have stayed with him throughout his illustrious career. Many a time has Burt dropped a grubber in behind his opposite to either score or get a repeat set. His small frame never stopped him from stealing the ball one on one and he did so on numerous occasions.
One thing, however, will set him apart from his more fancied teammates. His absolute professionalism. Burt was never one to hunt the headlines or even play representative footy. He simply did what was needed of him. When Burt was dropped earlier in the season, he forced his way back into first grade by simply copping it on the chin and turning out for Wenty. His goalkicking also represents his professionalism. There's no defining dance or movement when Burt lines up his kick. It's simple, yet effective, given he's the most accurate kicker this season. Burt has never received the accolades he deserves. His work ethic and professionalism is invaluable. He's only ever made the Country team once and the Prime Minister's XIII once.
Burt is great mates with teammate and current legend Nathan Hindmarsh. Hindmarsh has said that he could never imagine a more respectful and perfect role model than Luke Burt. He's incredibly grounded and an ego has never reared it's head. (Must've disappeared like his golden locks.) Burt's never been one to be down on himself and has always thought of others before himself. In 2010, just before Parramatta played Manly in that memorable comeback there was a meet and greet with the players at the Leagues Club. I went along and approached the legend for his autograph and asked him a question about his knee, which at the time was covered in ice due to a ligament injury. He answered simply "It'll be fine but whether or not I'll play is up to the coach and how it feels. If I think I can't do my job I won't play because I'll only bring the team down." Burt played, and while Hayne was the man who grabbed the headlines, Burt did the hard work. Most people remember Hayne's 60m dash from his own in-goal but if Burt wasn't back there to clean up the kick, the result could've been very different.
Burt is to the backline, what Hindmarsh is to the forwards. The glue that holds it all together. He's the guy who will always keep trying and the guy who will steady the ship. He's someone who you won't notice until he's gone. Well done Burty. You are a club legend and you will be missed.
He is a true EEL FOR LIFE.
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