End of an Era: Corey Oates Announces Retirement from NRL to Embark on New Adventures
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the rugby league community, Brisbane Broncos winger Corey Oates has announced his retirement from the National Rugby League (NRL) after more than a decade of dedicated service to the sport. After an illustrious 11-year career that saw him emerge as one of the NRL’s most prolific wingers and a fan favorite, Oates has decided to hang up his boots and take on new challenges outside the game.
The 29-year-old’s decision brings an end to a remarkable journey that began when he made his debut for the Broncos in 2013 as a teenager. Over the course of 11 seasons, Oates established himself as a cornerstone of the Broncos’ attack, playing over 190 games and scoring more than 120 tries. His trademark combination of size, speed, and finishing ability made him a feared opponent on the wing and earned him a number of accolades, including representative honors for Queensland in the State of Origin series.
In an emotional press conference held at Red Hill, the Broncos’ training base, Oates thanked his family, teammates, and fans for their unwavering support throughout his career. “It’s been an incredible journey, one that I will cherish for the rest of my life,” Oates said, fighting back tears. “To be able to represent this club and wear the Broncos jersey for so many years has been a dream come true. But the time has come for me to step away from the game and look to new opportunities in the next chapter of my life.”
From the Bush to the Big Time
Corey Oates’ journey to the NRL is a classic tale of hard work and perseverance. Born and raised in Biloela, a small town in Central Queensland, Oates grew up playing rugby league with dreams of one day reaching the big stage. His size and athleticism quickly caught the attention of scouts, and he was recruited to join the Broncos’ development system as a teenager.
After impressing in the club’s junior ranks, Oates was handed his first-grade debut in Round 17 of the 2013 season against the Melbourne Storm. In his very first game, Oates made an immediate impact, scoring a try in a performance that would foreshadow the career he was about to have. Over the next few years, Oates developed into a regular starter for the Broncos, with his dynamic running game and knack for finding the try line making him one of the most exciting young talents in the league.
“I remember when Corey first came into the team, you could tell straight away he was something special,” said Broncos coach Kevin Walters, who has been a key figure throughout Oates’ career. “He had this raw talent, this natural ability to finish and score tries, and he just kept getting better and better. It’s been an honor to coach him and watch him grow, both as a player and as a person.”
A Glittering Career
Oates’ career highlights are many. He was an integral part of the Broncos’ run to the 2015 NRL Grand Final, where the team came agonizingly close to lifting the trophy before a heart-breaking last-minute defeat to the North Queensland Cowboys. While the pain of that loss still lingers, Oates’ performances throughout the 2015 season cemented his status as one of the game’s premier wingers.
In 2016, Oates was rewarded for his stellar club form with selection to the Queensland State of Origin team, making his debut in Game 1 of the series. He played a key role in Queensland’s series victory that year, scoring tries in both Games 1 and 2 and becoming a mainstay in the Maroons’ squad over the next several seasons. Oates would go on to represent Queensland in eight Origin games, adding to his legacy as one of the state’s most reliable and consistent performers.
“What Corey brought to the Origin arena was his toughness and his ability to score when it mattered most,” said Queensland Origin coach Billy Slater. “He was always willing to do the hard yards, take those tough carries out of his own end, and he was clinical when given a chance to finish a set. He’s been a great servant to Queensland rugby league, and he’ll be sorely missed.”
Despite battling a series of injuries in the latter stages of his career, including a broken hand and rib injuries in recent seasons, Oates remained a key figure for the Broncos. His resilience and determination to return to top form after each setback was a testament to his character and love for the game.
A New Chapter
While Oates has not yet revealed the specifics of his post-rugby plans, there is speculation that he could pursue opportunities in media or coaching, given his deep understanding of the game and his natural charisma. Oates hinted that he is eager to explore various avenues outside of rugby league but stressed that he wants to remain involved in the sport in some capacity.
“I’ve always had a passion for coaching, and I love working with younger players, so that’s definitely something I’m considering,” Oates said. “But right now, I just want to take some time to enjoy life with my family, reflect on what’s been an incredible career, and see what opportunities come my way.”
Oates’ retirement also allows him to spend more time with his wife and children, a factor that weighed heavily on his decision to call time on his playing days. “Family has always been the most important thing to me,” Oates added. “I’m looking forward to being able to be there more for my kids and my wife and to create new memories with them.”
Legacy at the Broncos
For the Brisbane Broncos, Oates’ retirement marks the end of an era. His contributions to the club, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark on the team’s culture and history. As one of the few players to have spent their entire career with the Broncos, Oates’ loyalty and dedication have endeared him to fans, making him one of the club’s most beloved figures.
Broncos captain Adam Reynolds praised Oates for his leadership and commitment to the team, stating, “Corey has been a huge part of this club for so many years, and his presence will definitely be missed. He’s not only a great player but also a great bloke, and he’s been a mentor to so many of the younger guys coming through. We’re all going to miss him, but we’re also really excited to see what he does next.”
The Broncos’ CEO, Dave Donaghy, also paid tribute to Oates, highlighting his professionalism and impact on the club. “Corey is a true Broncos legend,” Donaghy said. “He’s given his all to this club for over a decade, and his contributions have been invaluable. We’re incredibly proud of what he’s achieved, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
The Fans’ Farewell
For the Broncos faithful, Oates’ retirement is a bittersweet moment. Fans have watched him grow from a young prospect into one of the NRL’s most respected wingers, and his departure leaves a void in the team that will be difficult to fill. Social media was flooded with tributes from fans, many of whom shared their favorite memories of Oates’ time in the maroon and gold.
“Corey has been my favorite player for years. It’s going to be strange not seeing him out there, but I’m so grateful for all the amazing moments he gave us,” one fan wrote on Twitter. Another added, “Oatesy has always been a class act, both on and off the field. The Broncos won’t be the same without him.”
The club is reportedly planning a special farewell event for Oates at Suncorp Stadium, where fans will have the chance to celebrate his career and bid him a proper farewell. It’s expected that the occasion will draw a large crowd, with many eager to show their appreciation for the winger who has given so much to the club.
The Impact on the Broncos’ Future
Oates’ retirement leaves a significant gap in the Broncos’ lineup heading into the 2025 season. As a long-time starter on the wing, Oates provided the team with both experience and firepower, and his absence will require the Broncos to look to younger talent to step up.
One potential replacement could be rising star Jesse Arthars, who has shown promise in his appearances for the Broncos. Arthars, 25, has the speed and skillset to succeed on the wing, and with Oates’ departure, he may now get the opportunity to establish himself as a regular starter.
Another option is emerging talent Deine Mariner, who has impressed in his limited first-grade appearances. Mariner is highly regarded within the club, and many believe he has the potential to become a long-term fixture in the Broncos’ backline.
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