Former Greats - Craig Salvatori /

Craig Salvatori

Craig Salvatori was graded by the Roosters in 1985 after playing junior league with the Dumbar Raiders. He made his first grade debut in 1986 but played just 13 first grade matches prior to the 1989 season. Under 1989 first grade coach Russell Fairfax, Salvatori quickly became a first grade regular and within a few seasons established himself as one of the game’s premier prop forwards. In 1991 Salvatori played the first of his five State of Origin matches for New South Wales and was the starting prop for Australia in two mid-season test matches.

He was recognised at the Dally M Awards by winning the 1991 Prop of the Year. Following Hugh McGahan’s retirement, Salvatori became Roosters captain and led the club for three seasons. At the half way mark of the 1992 Season the Roosters led the competition, with Salvatori and half back Gary Freeman from the Roosters the dominant players of the premiership. Unfortunately, Salvatori was suspended soon after and the Roosters finals prospects vanished. The Roosters won 10 of 14 with Salvatori and 2 of 8 without him that season. Salvatori, in eleven seasons, played 188 Club games for the Roosters. He spent his final season at South Sydney in 1996.