Corey Waddell's food business, Corey Eats, developed from Instagram posts about his dinners into a venture promoting healthy, uncomplicated meals.
"It all started a few years ago when I began posting regular dinner meals on Instagram, and it's grown from there," Corey said.
"Cooking and eating healthy food has always been a passion of mine and people seemed to be loving the weekly meal ideas, so I kept it going."
The Manly Warringah Sea Eagles forward is nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year at the League Ahead Academic Excellence Awards.
The annual awards recognise academic achievement, leadership and excellence in the NRL and NRLW, with winners honoured at the Wellbeing and Education Awards Night.
Entering his ninth NRL season and sixth with Manly, Waddell is a qualified nutritionist (NCA).
He draws on his cooking interests and experience as a professional athlete to make better nutrition more accessible and practical.
Waddell says interests beyond football can support players' wellbeing and performance.
"I think it's super important to have an interest or hobby outside of footy because mentally it can be pretty heavy," he said.
He says Manly and the NRL have supported his business, which he hopes to develop into culinary opportunities after his playing career.
"Down the track though I can see myself taking Corey Eats to the next level.
"It's something I enjoy, and I think it's relatable to everyone. I'm keen to see what the future holds."