LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a move that may come as a shock to fans and pundits alike, Queensland State of Origin representative and Brisbane Broncos winger Corey Oates has announced his retirement at the tender age of 29.
This decision comes just as the Broncos prepare for a new era under the guidance of coach Michael Maguire, with a wave of changes on the horizon.
Oates, who has notched up an impressive 121 tries in 216 games for the Broncos since his debut in 2013, will not be donning the maroon and gold jersey under Maguire's leadership.
Despite his stellar contributions to the team and his nine appearances for Queensland in State of Origin clashes, the winger has decided to hang up his boots rather than pursue opportunities overseas.
Ranked third on the Broncos' all-time try scorers list, Oates has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons.
Instead of looking to extend his career in the UK Super League, he has chosen to remain in sunny Brisbane and focus on his family.
With only 15 appearances in 2024 following a challenging season with just nine games in 2023, Oates has listened to his body and made the difficult but ultimately fulfilling choice to prioritize his loved ones.
"In the world of professional sports, sometimes tough decisions must be made.
My body may not have held up as well as I would have liked over the past year and a half, but my family is what truly matters to me now," Oates reflected.
"I want to be there for my kids, to be present and active in their lives.
That's why I've decided to call time on my career and start this new chapter."