Edward Burnicle played rugby union with the Balmain Club between 1911 and 1914. The outbreak of war had a significant impact on the rugby union code. It was reported that 90% of Sydney First Grade players were on active service by 1915.
The Sydney rugby union competition was therefore suspended. As a result, a number of rugby union players came across to rugby league in 1915. Edward Burnicle was one of these players. He played with the Balmain Rugby League Club from 1915 until 1918.
Edward was a champion swimmer and water polo player with the Balmain Rechabites Club. He later became a rugby league referee. Edward Burnicle is the grandfather of Peter Burnicle who played with Wests from 1963 until 1968.
