Deakin takes on marathon challenge

Former Oldham boss Steve Deakin is set to take on a marathon challenge this September, with Rugby League Cares backing his fundraising efforts for causes that hold a special place in his heart.

Deakin, now 71, coached at his hometown Oldham as well as no fewer than five Super League clubs as well as being strongly associated with French rugby league after the years he spent living and working across the Channel.

Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2013, Steve speaks in an astonishingly matter-of-fact way about how the cancer has spread over the last six years – to his spine, hips, breasts and lymphatic system.

“It is what it is – that’s a phrase I use a lot,” said Steve. “I’m not negative in any shape or form. I’d like to think I’ve always been a pragmatic person – and my faith helps me.”

Having remained a close friend of John Kear’s since working as his assistant coach at Sheffield Eagles – including at Wembley for their famous 1998 Challenge Cup triumph over Wigan – Steve has been both moved and inspired by his recent death.

He has therefore finalised plans to complete a marathon on Saturday September 5 – concluding at Oldham St Anne’s, the community club where the Deakin family have been such significant figures – with the money he raises to be shared between a number of causes.

The causes are linked by Motor Neurone Disease – Steve having lost another close Rugby League friend from his time in Australia, Jason Whitfield, to that disease a couple of years ago.

“The recent loss of my close friends John Kear and Jason Whitfield made me stop and think,” he explained.

It reminded me that while we can’t always change what happens to us, we can still try to make a difference for someone else.

With that in mind, I have decided to take on a marathon. There is just one difference. I can’t run it, so I will be walking every mile. Assisting me on this challenge are my son Liam and my son-in-law David Best.

I am doing this to raise money for causes that mean a great deal to me. The funds raised will be donated to the children of Rob Burrow, Jason Whitfield and Jai Arrow, and also to the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

If you are able to donate, no matter how small the amount, I would be incredibly grateful. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this post.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can give.”