Corey Oates Announces Retirement from NRL After Stellar Career
In a heartfelt announcement that resonates deeply with rugby league fans, Corey Oates, the esteemed winger for the Brisbane Broncos, has declared his retirement from the National Rugby League (NRL) following a remarkable career spanning over a decade. This news comes as the Broncos prepare for a transformative new chapter under the guidance of coach Michael Maguire. Oates leaves behind a legacy marked by resilience, dedication, and significant contributions to the sport.
At just 29 years old, Oates has been a pivotal figure in the Broncos' lineup, playing 216 first-grade games since his debut in 2013. However, the past two years have been challenging for him, with injuries taking a toll on his performance and ability to maintain a contract for the upcoming season. The Broncos are already looking to the future with Jesse Arthars and Deine Mariner poised to take the reins as first-choice wingers in 2025.
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Oates, in a statement released by the club, reflected on the impact of his injuries, stating, "The last 18 months haven't been kind with my body and my injuries, but it's my family that are my main priority now, and that's why I've made the decision to retire." His journey has been one of unexpected triumph, as he humbly acknowledged, "I never thought I was going to play one game, let alone over 200." This retirement marks a significant milestone, not just for Oates but also for the Broncos, as he was the last remaining player from the team that contested the grand final in 2015.
During his time at the Broncos, Oates etched his name into club history, including scoring a try in the 2015 grand final against North Queensland. He also made a remarkable impact on the representative stage, earning nine State of Origin caps for Queensland and contributing to their victories in the 2016, 2017, and 2022 series. His final match in a Broncos jersey was a round-27 clash against Melbourne, a fitting yet bittersweet end to a significant chapter in his career.
With Oates’ departure, the Broncos are entering a new era, needing to reassess their backline depth following the exits of other players, including Tristan Sailor and Jordan Pereira. As they look ahead, Coach Maguire will also need to navigate contract negotiations for key players like Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs, who are both off-contract next season and able to explore options with rival clubs starting next month.
As Corey Oates hangs up his boots, fans and teammates alike will remember him for his unwavering spirit, his electrifying speed on the field, and the many moments that brought joy to Broncos supporters. His retirement is not just a farewell but a celebration of a career that has left an indelible mark on the NRL landscape.
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