Nicho Hynes used his Try July celebration to honour a mate’s loss, dedicating his post-try dance in Friday night’s win over the Dolphins to the late Steven Munster, father of Queensland Origin star Cameron Munster.
The Sharks playmaker crossed twice in the 24-12 victory but made headlines for a heartfelt gesture that meant far more than points on the board.
After his first try, Hynes broke into a dance he once shared with Steven Munster, a personal tribute to a man he came to know well during his early Storm days.
“It was just a little dance that we used to do every time we had a couple of beers together,” Hynes said. “I’ve just been thinking about him a lot. I’ve been talking to my girlfriend about it. That could have been me. That could be anyone waking up without their dad or a parent.
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“I’m sending lots of love to his family. I just remember after games at Melbourne, seeing his old man and old lady in the sheds always smiling and happy. It touched me a lot, big time.”
Hynes opens up on his bond with Cameron Munster
Their friendship began in 2018 when Hynes arrived in Melbourne on a train-and-trial deal and was quickly embraced by Munster, who welcomed him into his home and circle.
“He ended up having me at his house for a couple of weeks… he was just someone who was so nice and caring and wanted to help out and make me better,” Hynes recalled.
“I looked up to him and I’ve looked up to him ever since I met him. Even now, seeing the way he’s handled it and went out and performed the other night, I don’t think I’ve seen and played with a better rugby league player live… I’m just so proud of him.”