Arise Sir Kev - why Kevin Sinfield's extraordinary loyalty makes him deserving of a Knighthood
True leadership is rarely defined by trophies alone.
It is about showing up long after the final whistle has been blown and the applause fades.
Demonstrating a strength and resolve in character, compassion, loyalty and the ability to carry others when they need it the most.
The city of Leeds knows only too well that Leeds Rhinos hero Kevin Sinfield has long been that kind of leader - both on and off the pitch.
As a player, he was the beating heart of the club. It wasn’t just about wearing the captain’s armband with pride it was about being a team player.
His connections forged on the pitch gave the team the ability to transcend the game.
When he met pocket rocket Rob Burrow, what started as a bond between two team mates went on to become one of the most moving stories to capture the country’s attention.
His unwavering dedication to Rob, following his cruel diagnosis with motor neurone disease, was defined by courage, love and the refusal to let the cruelty of MND diminish his friend's dignity.
The moment he scooped Rob out of his wheelchair after completing the first Rob Burrow Marathon and carried him over the finish line before placing a delicate kiss on his face speaks volumes for the strength of that bond and is testament to Kevin's spirit.
Sir Kev, as he is affectionately known by Leeds fans, has put his own body through the wringer to raise millions of pounds and awareness for the condition that sadly claimed Rob’s life last year.
With every step forward in his marathon efforts - including the 7 in 7 which is due to start next month - it's another step Kev has taken towards raising the profile of the condition.
His efforts have helped to make Rob's vision come true by creating a dedicated MND Centre right here in the heart of Leeds to support families in their time of need, to create a sanctuary of dignity for those with the condition and to lead pioneering research to one day find a cure.
And after the official opening by the Prince of Wales yesterday, it comes as no surprise that once again Yorkshire Evening Post readers are leading the charge for Kev to finally be knighted for his courage and determination.
Our readers aren’t wrong. It is something this newspaper backs and has supported over the last four years.
A knighthood is not simply a reward; it is a national acknowledgement of service. Kevin Sinfield has already given more than many who have knighthoods before him.
He has given his time, his body, his platform, and his heart. He has also given hope to thousands of families living with MND.
And honouring him would finally honour all that.
Kev reminds us what it is to be a true hero - and his is one who never asks to be called a hero at all.
This country needs to bestow this honour on Kevin after all these years.
It's not about validating what he has done on and off the pitch, but it's a true reminder to everyone that silent heroes are the ones who are the very best of us.
And undoubtedly he has shown what real leadership looks like long after the crowds at Headingley have left.
Surely now is finally the time to arise Sir Kev.