RLPA thanks Retiring Class of 2024 and recognises players in transition

The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) pays tribute to the Retiring Class of 2024 and players in transition, and acknowledges all of their incredible contributions to the game of rugby league.

Over the weekend of the NRL and NRLW Grand Finals, the RLPA in partnership with the NRL, held a number of events and workshops to support a group of players from the Retiring Class of 2024.

This weekend included the on-field Tribute before the NRL Grand Final, an RLPA-run workshop on retirement and transition, attendance at the official Grand Final lunch, social events, a partners’ dinner, and a past player reunion.

Tom Symonds, the General Manager of Past Players and Transition at the RLPA, salutes the Retiring Class of 2024 and players in transition.

“The RLPA would like to congratulate all retiring NRL and NRLW players, including those featuring in the Grand Final Day Tribute, but also the many others who have announced their retirement from professional rugby league over the past 12 months,” said Tom Symonds.

“We pay special acknowledgment to the contributions of those in the tribute group for their long and amazing careers.

“We also celebrate the journey of players whose careers have come to an end in varying circumstances such as a stint in other competitions, or via injury or non-contracting.

“The RLPA’s Past Player and Transition Program looks forward to welcoming all retiring players to the family and supporting them into their next chapter.”

Currently, it worth highlighting there are over 150 NRL and NRLW players who do not yet have a contract beyond the 2024 season. Many of these players in transition will of course sign a new NRL or NRLW contract in the coming period.

However, many, through circumstances beyond their control, will never sign a new NRL or NRLW contract. Some will remain on the lookout for a new contract, others may eventually decide to retire from professional rugby league, and others will continue their career in other competitions such as the UK Super League or State-Based competitions.

The RLPA thanks all players in transition and acknowledges the uncertainty that this period can have at a professional and personal level.

List of 2024 Retiring Players*

Karina Brown
Nita Maynard
Stephanie Hancock
Samantha Bremner
Nathan Peats
Kevin Naiqama
Dean Whare
Zane Tetevano
Chris McQueen
Ava Seumanufagai
Hymel Hunt
Tautau Moga
Jesse Bromwich
Dale Finucane
Shaun Johnson
Tyrone Peachey
Edrick Lee
Wade Graham
Dylan Napa
Aaron Woods
Brad Parker
Mitch Dunn
Andrew Davey
Brendan Elliot
Cooper Johns
Kevin Proctor
Jordan Pereira
Jack Johns
Morgan Boyle
Corey Oates

*This list is not exhaustive as retirements can occur at any time throughout the course of a year. There are also some players who may not have not officially announced their retirement.