After weeks of deliberation, Noosa product and Sydney Roosters co-captain Jake Friend has announced his immediate retirement from the NRL due to concussion concerns.
The 31-year-old three-time premiership winner said he made the decision after extensive medical advice following a third concussion in less than six months.
Friend met with coaching staff and concussion experts this week, deciding to end his 264-game NRL career to protect his future health after suffering a heavy head knock in round one.
It was the last of more than 20 concussions throughout his playing career.
“For any player that stood alongside Jake Friend in his 264 games, I have no doubt that every single one of them would thank him for being a true teammate,” said Roosters coach Trent Robinson.
“Jake has been an incredible player and leader for the Roosters, and while I know that he won’t be comfortable with the accolades, it’s important we acknowledge his achievements over the years.
“Jake’s place in Roosters’ history is assured.
“He is a man of integrity, and his leadership has been a key driver of the club’s success.
“He has made those around him better and I’ve loved coaching him.”
In an interview in 2015, Friend, who was born in Nambour, told of his upbringing in Noosa, where he started playing rugby league as a nine-year-old with the Pirates.
He said he had played Aussie Rules before that because his Mum wouldn’t let him play league.
“From about the under 12s until the under 15s, I started making the rep teams and got a bit more serious about footy,” he told the Beast publication.
Friend joined the Roosters when he was recruited by legend Arthur Beetson and has become one of the club’s favourite sons.
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The one-club man is expected to take up an off-field role with the Roosters in retirement.
“I wouldn’t be the man I am today without the Roosters and rugby league,” he said.
Although it’s a medical retirement it’s understood the Roosters will not receive any salary cap dispensation from the NRL given Friend is in the final year of his contract.
As part of the NRL rules, clubs can apply for salary cap relief if a player is medically unable to continue playing, except when in the final year of their contract.
Friend signed a one-year deal with the Roosters last year after battling injuries across the past two seasons.
He made three State of Origin appearances for Queensland and played a Test for Australia in 2016.
His long-term replacement has already been decided with Sam Verrills signed to the club until the end of 2024.
