Two of rugby league’s toughest former forwards have successfully lobbied the NRL to provide free lifetime medical screenings for all retired elite players, after years of suffering the physical toll of their careers.
Mark ‘Spud’ Carroll and James Graham, known for playing through the pain during their playing days, led the campaign that has resulted in the Australian Rugby League Commission launching a new service offering comprehensive medical screenings at no cost.
“So now when you’re an NRL player or an NRLW player, you are for life an NRL player, an NRLW player, and you’re going to be looked after,” Carroll said.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today
The former prop forward, who now experiences vocal cord issues when he speaks, said the reality of retirement came as a shock to many players.
“What shocked me was we’re not covered. Medicare don’t cover PET scan, $900. Don’t cover an MRI, $500,” he said.
At least 30 players have already signed up since the Commission announced the initiative on Thursday.
Graham said many former players struggled to navigate the healthcare system after retirement.
“I’d hear players say to me that they didn’t know where to go, who to turn to. Like, how do I get into the system? Well, now it’s clear. There’s a clear pathway,” he said.
Both men admitted they had to overcome the tough mentality drilled into them during their playing careers.
“My late father had this saying, never show you’re hurt, always get up. And I was more worried about my dad jumping off the fence and kicking me up the arse, to be honest,” Carroll said.
The message to former players is simple: “Go and get checked. It’s going to cost you nothing. It’s a no-brainer.”
Retired players can access the service by emailing screening@nrl.com.au.
