The 'Three Amigos' rode into town last Friday for the Port Stephens Men of League kick-off fundraising luncheon held at Soldiers Point Bowling Club. A good roll up of 170 people enjoyed the excellent guest speakers who represented their country of birth with Clint Newton, having played for the US at the world cup, and Noel 'Crusher' Cleal and Mark Sargent both making Kangaroo tours. The trio enjoyed the day and were pleased to make a positive contribution on the day. Crusher told plenty amusing tales from his years in the game and was full of praise for his brother Les who also had a stellar career playing with 13 clubs including the Roosters in 1982 and English club Windes. Clint Newton documented his playing career including his role as the CEO of the rugby players' association and his time with Peter V'landys in getting rugby league back on in last year's COVID environment. The support of his mother and father throughout his playing career will be a lasting memory. Mark Sargent touched on the great friendships he formed that still remain today and his experience of making the long walk at Wembley Stadium. One of the attendees, Richard Davis, said the one-liners were worth the price of admission alone. Noel Cleal: Why the Roosters? 'He used to take Kerry Packer pig shooting ... Packer had a close association with Easts and say no more'. Why to Manly? 'Manly made out a larger cheque book'. Most memorable try. 'SCG 83 v Eels ... from the ruck ball to Cleal, Parra waited for him to kick, threw a dummy and strolled over to score. Supporters across league aren't aware how generous a man Bob Fulton was'. Mark Sergeant: 'Upon starting with the Knights in their second season he was expected to perform like a senior player. Found it difficult to adjust to being the face in a crowd after time with Dogs.' Winning of Rothman's Medal in '89. 'Played consistently but plenty of wet weather games were in his favour'. Try scoring (hat-trick) v Canberra: 'One of the few occasions he wore head gear'. Clint Newton: 'Players Association formed 41 years ago with Jack Gibson and Artie Beetson two of the driving forces'. 'Having to work with the NRL to be COVID compliant has repaired many of the fractures between players and clubs that had emerged over the years.Fortunate to go to Storm. Direct approach from Bellamy. Highly rated Hagan as a coach as he had to manage a number of rebels, including Andrew Johns'. Both MC, ABC Grandstand's Gerry Collins, and auctioneer Kiernan McMahon contributed on the day. Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: