LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart has acknowledged the significant challenge that lies ahead for his team, as they are set to lose almost 1000 games of experience by the end of next season.
The retirement of veteran centre Jarrod Croker, who played an impressive 307 games for the Raiders, and the departure of experienced playmaker Jack Wighton, who has moved to South Sydney, will leave a significant void in the team.
Additionally, fellow Raiders veterans Jordan Rapana and Elliott Whitehead are also expected to retire at the end of the next season, further depleting the team's experience.
Stuart has been frank about the magnitude of the task that his team will face in the coming year, stating, "There is an enormous amount of experience that we'll be losing and it's going to be a very challenging period for us as a club." However, he remains optimistic and sees this period as an opportunity for growth and development.
He believes that while there may be inconsistencies during the transition, it will ultimately benefit the team in the long run.
The loss of such a substantial amount of experience will undoubtedly impact the Raiders' performance on the field.
The departing players have been key figures within the team and their absence will be felt.
However, Stuart is determined to focus on the positives and views this period as a chance to nurture and develop a new generation of players.
He understands that there will be ups and downs along the way but remains hopeful for the future.
Overall, Stuart's admission highlights the significant changes that the Raiders will undergo in the next year.
The loss of experienced players will undoubtedly pose a challenge, but Stuart's positive outlook and determination to develop a young group of players suggests that the team will navigate this transitional period with resilience and determination.