Corcoran, a former chairman of the Newcastle Knights, has spent decades serving the 13-man code in an array of roles.

He is perhaps best known as the founder of mini and mod-league, which was introduced in 1982 during his 30-year tenure as the Australian Rugby League's coaching director.

In an innovation that revolutionised junior football, Corcoran reduced the size of the field and introduced an eight-a-side game for under-nines and 11-a-side game for children aged 10 to 12.

He also brought in a two-pass rule, designed to deter the best junior players from monopolising possession.

At the time, he declared: "My philosophy is rugby league is a running, passing and support game."

As well as his many years spent in junior development, Corcoran was also a mentor to prominent senior coaches.

Seven-time premiership winner Wayne Bennett once described Corcoran's help and advice, in particular with skill-based training drills, as "invaluable" during his formative years.

A former NSW Sports Administrator of the Year, Corcoran was awarded the Order of Australia in 1988.

He served as chairman of the Australian Coaching Council (1982-97), head coach of the Australian Rugby League's National Youth Squad (1983-2000), chairman of the Australian Student Rugby League (1990-1998), treasurer of the NSW Sports Federation (1999-2008) and chairman of the NSW Sport and Recreation's Industry Standing Committee (2005-2008).

After being elected to the Knights' board of directors in 2000, he immediately nominated himself for the position of chairman, only for incumbent Michael Hill to survive the challenge to his leadership.

Corcoran eventually took the reins in 2007, when then chairman Mike Tyler was ousted in a boardroom coup.

Corcoran held the position for 14 months, until the next election, when foundation player Rob Tew was installed as chairman, and Tony Butterfield as his deputy.

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