Rugby league world rallies behind Konrad Hurrell after mother's death

Hurrell blows a kiss to his mother after scoring for the Warriors back in 2014.
Hurrell blows a kiss to his mother after scoring for the Warriors back in 2014. Photo credit: Getty

Tributes have flowed from across the rugby league world, after Konrad Hurrell's mother died this week.

Hurrell has described his mother as his biggest inspiration, and his post-try celebration - blowing a kiss to her directly at the in-goal camera - has become a trademark of the affable centre.

The 28-year-old Tonga international and former NZ Warrior and Gold Coast Titans now lives in England, where he plays for the Super League's Leeds Rhinos.

Hurrell has used his Instagram account to pay tribute to his mother.

Hurrell's long-time partner Bec Bates has also taken to Instagram, posting a heartfelt message of support.

Former teammates Shaun Johnson, Jazz Tevaga, and Manu Vatuvei are among those reaching out in support.

"I've never been around such an infectious personality with a huge smile and an even bigger heart," writes Bates. "Koni was lucky to get those attributes from you. 

"So many hearts are broken right now but we won’t say goodbye because your presence is more obvious than ever.

"We will still blow you kisses because we know you can see them every time now."

With the Rhinos, Hurrell has quickly become a crowd favourite, his 14 tries in 2019 good enough for second-most on the team.