Rabbitohs’ Garlick Family Legacy Continues as Bronson Makes Highly Anticipated Debut
BRISBANE, Australia – For Bronson Garlick, Sunday’s NRL debut for the South Sydney Rabbitohs against the Dolphins isn’t just another game; it’s a homecoming decades in the making. The 29-year-old hooker will follow in the footsteps of his father, former Rabbitohs captain Sean Garlick, becoming the 19th father-son pairing to represent the iconic club in its 118-year history.
The significance of the moment wasn’t lost on Garlick, who described the opportunity as “more special” than his initial NRL appearance with the Melbourne Storm in 2023. “I feel a lot more emotion because I always remembered dad playing, and I was a Souths fanatic,” he said.
Garlick’s journey to the NRL wasn’t conventional. A late bloomer, he first played NRL at age 27 after stints with Canterbury and Newtown in the NSW Cup. He was signed by the Storm, where his dedication impressed coach Craig Bellamy. But his heart always remained with the Rabbitohs.
“I used to have a shrine of Souths gear in my drawer at home. I had posters on my wall, including one of dad,” Garlick recalled. “Everything I had was red and green. I loved Sam Burgess, Issac Luke and Adam Reynolds.”
The family connection to the Rabbitohs runs deep. Sean Garlick, who debuted for South Sydney in 1990, remembers the pride of representing the club and instilled that same passion in his son. The elder Garlick broke down in tears when presenting Bronson with his Storm jersey and again when addressing the Souths playing group, according to reports.
“It’s fairytale stuff. It doesn’t work out like this that often,” Sean Garlick said.
Bronson’s debut comes at a crucial time for South Sydney, with first-choice No. 9 Brandon Smith sidelined with a calf injury. Garlick, who can play hooker, halfback, or in the back row, will be looking to make the most of his opportunity.
The Garlick family’s story is a testament to perseverance and loyalty. Bronson was even cut from Souths’ SG Ball team alongside future NSW and Australian representative Josh Addo-Carr, but continued to pursue his dream. He credits his father’s advice – “Never sack yourself” – with keeping him motivated.
The Rabbitohs boast a rich history, and the Garlick family’s contribution adds another chapter to the club’s legacy. Skipper Cameron Murray and his father, Corey, were the last father-son duo to represent South Sydney, with seven such pairings having graced the field in the past 50 years.
More than 60 family and friends are expected to travel to Suncorp Stadium to witness Bronson’s debut, including his fiancée Georgie, son Parker, and brothers Jackson and Campbell. The game promises to be a special occasion for the Garlick family and a memorable moment for South Sydney supporters.
