The Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA) have today paid
tribute to South Sydney Rabbitohs captain Sam Burgess, who today announced his
retirement from the National Rugby League.
Burgess, who joined the RLPA’s Player Advisory Group earlier
this year, played 182 NRL matches for the Rabbitohs and 88 games for the
Bradford Bulls.
The 30-year-old also made 22 Test appearances for England, 2
Tests for Great Britain and played for the NRL All Stars in 2010.
RLPA Chief Executive Officer, Ian Prendergast, thanked
Burgess for his enormous contribution to the game following today’s
announcement.
“Sam has provided the game with many incredible moments
during his stellar career and driven huge interest in the sport,” Mr
Prendergast said.
“While the game is losing a fantastic athlete on the field,
I also want to recognise the contribution that Sam and his brothers have made
to success of the Association in recent years.
“All four brothers have contributed in various ways, with
Sam joining the newly-formed Player Advisory Group this year.
“Sam is a passionate individual who has often selflessly
given his time to the cause of his fellow players, the community and the game
during his time in the NRL.
“Sam will be a massive loss to the game and it’s unfortunate
his career has come to an end earlier than expected due to a chronic shoulder
injury.
“This is yet another example of the physical stress that players
are frequently subjected to and the impact that can have on them personally and
professionally.
“The contribution that players make to this game cannot be
underestimated.
“Without athletes like Sam putting their bodies on the line
each week, there wouldn’t be the entertaining and successful sport we enjoy
today.
“I would like to formally thank Sam – along with the other
departing players we acknowledged recently at The Players’ Champion awards –
for everything they have contributed to rugby league and wish them well in the
next chapter of their lives.”
