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"When Greg Inglis bid farewell to his rugby league career, retirement initially seemed like a well-deserved break. The three-time premiership winner anticipated a leisurely life post-football but found himself at a crossroads, unsure of his path. It was the profound advice from legendary coach Wayne Bennett, a seven-time premiership winner, that eventually resonated with Inglis, transforming his perspective.
Bennett's words, 'When you retire, you're a long way from retired,' took time to sink in, but they became a guiding light for Inglis. Reflecting on his journey, Inglis admitted, 'I didn't know what I wanted to do. I thought I could just retire and move back home, live near the beach, live on a property.'
As life unfolded, Inglis discovered the truth behind Bennett's wisdom, realizing the challenges that awaited him after hanging up his boots. This revelation gained added significance as he navigated the complexities of retirement, battling alcoholism and depression before being diagnosed with bipolar II in 2019.
The harsh realities of post-retirement life are not unique to Inglis. Former Socceroos captain Lucas Neill recently highlighted the abrupt challenges that can arise after the final whistle. Just two years after ending his international football career, Neill, who once earned $76,000 a week, faced bankruptcy.
In 2020, a year after retiring from professional rugby league, Inglis found a new purpose. Overcoming personal struggles, he established the Goanna Academy—a program dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health and empowering children to voice their concerns. Collaborating with fellow players, including Rabbitohs star Cody Walker and NRLW winger Jakiya Whitfeld, Inglis is using his platform to advocate for mental health awareness.
In the face of adversity, Inglis's journey exemplifies resilience, growth, and a commitment to making a positive impact beyond the sporting arena. His efforts with the Goanna Academy serve as a testament to the transformative power of confronting challenges head-on and finding renewed purpose in the pursuit of mental health advocacy."
"In conclusion, Greg Inglis's post-retirement journey has evolved from the uncertainty of life after rugby league to a purpose-driven mission centered around mental health advocacy. Guided by the sage advice of Wayne Bennett, Inglis navigated the challenges of retirement, overcoming personal struggles and embracing a new calling.
The parallels with other athletes, such as Lucas Neill, underscore the often unforeseen difficulties that accompany the transition from a successful playing career to post-retirement life. Inglis's openness about his battles with alcoholism and depression, culminating in a bipolar II diagnosis, sheds light on the importance of mental health awareness in the sporting community.
In establishing the Goanna Academy, Inglis has not only found a renewed sense of purpose but has also become a powerful advocate for breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Collaborating with fellow players, he is actively using his platform to inspire and encourage young minds to prioritize their mental well-being.
Greg Inglis's journey serves as an inspirational narrative of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative impact one can have beyond the boundaries of sport. As he passes the ball and imparts wisdom on the importance of mental health, Inglis is leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond his illustrious rugby league career."