Brock Lamb, Michael Gordon and Shaun Fensom headline recently retired NRL players heading to the country
Brock Lamb signed with Parramatta for this season, but after a change of heart, he’s heading back to his roots to play with his mates. And he's not the only recently-retired NRL player going bush.
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A premiership winner, a much-loved toiler, a former Blues prop and a set of brothers signing with the same club.
These are the collection of recently retired NRL players that will play for country clubs this season.
The bush has long been a haven for rugby league stars to give back to regional clubs once the bright lights of first grade subside. This important tradition will continue in 2020 with a host of recognisable names joining teams across NSW.
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BROCK LAMB (Maitland)
He had signed with Parramatta for this season, but after a last-minute change of heart, Brock Lamb will be at the Maitland Pickers in 2020.
At just 22, Lamb has the league world at his feet but after struggling mentally with the top-flight grind he decided to return home and play with his mates.
The ex-Knight, Rooster and London Bronco may return to the NRL in the future, but for now he is focused on enjoying life while playing country footy.
Lamb is a significant signing for a Maitland side that finished fourth last season.
MICHAEL GORDON (Tweed Heads)
The Flash has always expressed a desire to return home and play for his hometown Tweed Coast Raiders.
Now after an NRL career spanning 14 seasons, five clubs and 261 games, Gordon will finally fulfil his promise and play for the Raiders.
The versatile and reliable back is the ultimate clubman, and the perfect player for the next generation to learn from.
Expect Gordon, 36, to thrive at Tweed Coast under the coaching of former premiership-winning Manly prop and Clive Churchill medallist, Brent Kite.
SHAUN FENSOM (Belconnen United)
He may not be the biggest bloke or the most skilful, but Shaun Fensom is one of most adored NRL players in history.
Fans respected Fensom’s work ethic, never-say-die attitude and team-first focus, much like fellow Canberra legend and proud country boy Alan Tongue.
Unfortunately, injury held back this warrior from reaching his full potential.
He memorably broke his tibia and fibula just three minutes into the 2017 grand final while playing for North Queensland against Melbourne.
Fensom signed a one-year deal with Brisbane last season, but after only two NRL games he decided to call time on his 176-game career.
The Camden-born forward is pumped about playing for Belconnen United.
“The Sharks just missed out on the semi-finals last season, they’re a club that’s building and I want to come back and help out as much as I can and hopefully make the semis this year,” Fensom said.
“I’m excited. There’s a little less pressure than playing professionally and you can enjoy footy a bit more and it’ll just be good going out there on the weekend and running around.”
Fensom joins former Raiders teammate Glen Buttriss at the Sharks.
JEREMY LATIMORE (Wests Illawarra)
After an 11-year career with six clubs, journeyman prop Jeremy Latimore will finish his time at Wests Illawarra.
He made his NRL debut for Parramatta in 2009 and went on to play 182 games.
The Port Macquarie-born bookend walks away with respect after a commendable career.
Latimore will juggle his country footy stint with his director role at the Rugby League Players’ Association.
TIM GRANT (Thirroul)
When Tim Grant’s 13-year NRL career ended last season after a serious pectoral injury, many thought his rugby league days were over.
But after a solid recovery, Grant has decided to sign with the Thirroul Butchers in the Illawarra competition.
Former Penrith prop Trent Waterhouse, who plays at the Butchers, was a key factor in convincing Grant to extend his league career for at least another season.
DANIEL MORTIMER (Orange CYMS)
Orange CYMS was where his rugby league journey started, so it is only fitting that Daniel Mortimer finishes his career at his junior club.
Mortimer has penned a two-year deal to captain/coach CYMS in the Group 10 competition.
He played 128 NRL games for four clubs, including taking home a premiership with the Sydney Roosters in 2013.
CRAIG & GRANT GARVEY (Cowra)
The Cowra Magpies will be boosted by the Garvey brothers after the Group 10 club secured their signatures for this season.
Craig and Grant have combined for just 24 NRL games but their experience at the highest level will be invaluable for the Magpies.