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SOUTHPORT head of football Mark Ross has declared his newly retired son Nathan would look “brilliant” in a Tigers jersey one day if his body heals suitably.
Nathan was a favourite among NRL fans in his four-year, 60-game career for Newcastle, providing excitement on the field and a likeable character off it.
The 30-year-old outside back has not been able to play since last July, however, and officially ended his professional career yesterday as a result of a groin injury. He was born on the Gold Coast and played junior footy for Burleigh and still has connections to the Glitter Strip.
His father Mark coached Southport’s A-grade side last year before transitioning into a head of football position at Owen Park.
Mark, a former Gold Coast Seagulls and Giants first grader, admitted his son’s retirement took him by surprise as they had focused their talks on more positive topics.
“I know how he is wired: He is just such a competitive little bugger and he doesn’t want negativity in his life,” Mark said.
“The last 12 months of my career I didn’t train, they would needle me on a Sunday and I would go out and play. Then I wouldn’t be able to walk again for a week.
“I was hoping he never got to that because you have got a big life in front of you and have got to enjoy it. You end up with two replacement knees like me, it’s not much fun.”
Nathan revealed the extent of his injuries in a Knights statement.
“This groin and pelvic injury has been plaguing me,” he said.
“It got to a stage where I couldn’t get out of my car, struggled to walk and pick up my kids without pain. This decision is about putting my health and my family first.”
Former NRL players including Ben Hannant and Daniel Mortimer have played stints on the Gold Coast – the latter is currently with Currumbin – after retiring from top level league due to injuries.
Mark said Nathan (pictured) would be a good addition to the Coast competition down the track, if fit.
“Geez, wouldn’t that be good? The Ross Dog would liven up the comp, that’s for sure,” Mark said.
“He would look brilliant in a black and gold Southport jersey.”