THE ICING ON THE CAKE

Q

What was it like to play in the Rabbitohs’ drought-breaking premiership side in 2014 (pictured)?

A

There was a lot riding on it. Winning became a habit and it became normal to see us on top of the table. In the finals you started to feel the pressure of the 43-year drought. When we did it that was the icing on the cake for my career. I went on to achieve some stuff after that but then and there I could have retired and been a happy man. That was everything. I was content with myself, no more doubts and questions. I felt at peace.

Q

There was controversy towards the end of your Australian career with your domestic violence case, which you were cleared of. Did that play a role in wanting to leave?

A

Probably. That played a part. There was a handful of things, from some of the media scrutiny to really working myself hard to try to get the premiership, the pressure of that. And also wanting to play another sport. That all played in together but definitely after some of the media stuff I lost the love of the game a bit and how it was run. I would have loved to go back and (try for more premierships) but sometimes in life there’s that opportunity cost of what you’re leaving out. I knew I wanted to play another sport, I wanted to achieve some other things. Even now I still miss rugby league. I wish I could play this weekend. But unfortunately you have to pick one sometimes. Getting to go overseas and play a different game, meet new friends and experience new cultures, you realise the world is a big place. Some of your problems and the things you go through are really small. It was nice to take myself out of the bubble.