Heritage Number 148 for the Paramatta Eels
It is with great sadness that the Parramatta Eels announce the passing of Leonard (Len) Wadling, player #148.
Len started his career with the Eels in 1956, playing in five games and scoring two tries for the U23s. He is a versatile winger and center.
Len made his first grade debut in 1957, scoring a try in his first game, just like his cousin Keith Gersbach, who had participated in the club’s inaugural game ten years prior. Before leaving the team at the end of the 1957 season, he would play two more first-grade games.
In 1959, Len joined Manly. He played on the wing against St George in the Grand Final the same year.
At the end of 1963, Len announced his retirement from rugby league.
Len, who worked as a concreter, was married to Pat and had five kids. He would spend the majority of his life as a football fan.
In December 2024, Len died close to Grafton.
The Parramatta Eels send their deepest sympathies to Len’s friends, family, and everyone who knew him. He will always be known as player #148 for the Parramatta Eels.