Moon was an integral part of the Waratahs club and the Yenda community, involving himself selflessly for many years for the benefit of those around him.

Moon’s passing last November at the relatively young age of 59 shocked many in the local rugby league fraternity, and left a hole in the Waratahs club and the Yenda Rotary club.

However, with the commissioning of the Graham Moon Memorial Cup, the local identity’s great work will be acknowledged once a year when the Tigers face off against the Blueheelers.

Graham’s widow Ruth said the family were honoured to have Graham’s name carried on through the annual game.

Ruth said interest in rugby league was an uplifting help in her husband’s life, especially when he was undergoing radiography treatment.

“Thank goodness for Graham’s interest in rugby league, as he watched football all of the time,” Ruth said.

Ruth said that no matter how bad a day Graham was having, for the 80 minutes the football was on – he was happy.

Ruth also spoke of Graham’s unwavering will to set goals during his life and do what ever it took to see them fulfilled – wearing both football and work boots.

“When he set his mind to something, he gave 100 per cent, it was like that with football, the farm and his family,” she said.

Graham first pulled on the boots for the Tigers as a 16-year-old and was a prolific player for the reserve grade side.

However, when he had to leave his beloved Tigers and run his property, his attention turned to the committee side of the club, where he acted as the team manager, vice-president and president for more than four years.

Graham’s tenure in charge of the Waratahs heralded a golden age for the Tigers, making several grand finals.

The significance of the game this weekend is not lost on the current crop of players, many of who spoke to Graham on a regular basis right up until his death.