Billy Boston Son on Father’s Knighthood Wish
- The son of rugby league legend Sir Billy Boston believes his father should have received his knighthood sooner.
- Sir Billy,90,became the frist rugby league player to be knighted in the sport's history earlier this week.
- "It was absolutely amazing," Stephen Boston said of the ceremony.
Stephen Boston,son of the newly knighted rugby league legend Sir Billy Boston,believes the honor was long overdue. Discover the heartfelt comments as he discusses his father’s knighthood, admitting that Sir Billy’s dementia may prevent him from fully understanding the importance. Stephen recounts the investiture ceremony, highlighting a memorable exchange with King Charles. See how Boston’s legendary career, including his extraordinary try-scoring record for Wigan and his groundbreaking status as the first black player to tour with the Great Britain Lions, played a role in this prestigious recognition. He also shares his thoughts on future honors, including a suggestion for Kevin Sinfield. News Directory 3 delivers this exclusive insight into a historic moment in rugby. Discover what’s next …
Sir Billy Boston’s Knighthood: Son Says Honor Was Overdue
The son of rugby league legend Sir Billy Boston believes his father should have received his knighthood sooner. Stephen Boston said his father’s dementia prevents him from fully grasping the honor, wich he feels was “a long time coming.”
Sir Billy,90,became the frist rugby league player to be knighted in the sport’s history earlier this week. Stephen, along with his mother and sisters, attended the investiture ceremony.
“It was absolutely amazing,” Stephen Boston said of the ceremony. “I thought the King was brilliant with him.” He added that his father seemed to genuinely enjoy the event, remarking that it was “the biggest honour I’ve ever received.”
Stephen Boston recounted a lighthearted exchange between King Charles and his father. “The King told Dad, ‘I played rugby in the Army but it is indeed not as dangerous as the sport you do.’ Dad said, ‘No, your job is much more dangerous!'”
Cardiff-born Billy Boston made his mark after switching to rugby league in 1953, scoring 478 tries in 488 matches for Wigan. In 1954,he became the first black player to tour with the Great Britain rugby league Lions. Over three Lions tours, he scored 24 tries in 31 Test appearances.
His son called it “scandalous” that it took so long for his father to be knighted. Looking ahead, Stephen Boston suggested that former Leeds rhinos star Kevin sinfield, known for his motor neurone disease fundraising, should be next in line for the honor. “He is superhuman and has put the disease on the map!” Stephen Boston said.
