Veteran Cowboys and representative centre forced to retire

Injury is a cruel way to end an illustrious career but it does happen and for North Queensland Cowboys centre Brent Tate, injury has finally gotten the better of him.

It was a ruptured ACL that eventually got the better of him, bringing to an end the career of the 32-year old.

Since the injury occurred during the State of Origin series, Tate has not played a game and although it was not a decision he wanted to make, the doctors advice was crucial.

“On the advice from the specialist, I’ve had to decide to stop playing rugby league which is unfortunate but necessary if I want to enjoy my post-football life,” Tate said.

“When you have young kids, there’s more to think about than just playing footy and I want to have the best chance of enjoying my life with them.

“I’m really grateful to have had the career I’ve had and will always cherish the experiences and opportunities that rugby league, and playing for three great clubs as well as my state and country, has given me.

With injuries striking left, right and centre throughout his career, the veteran centre powered through and played 229 first-grade games.

Tate, who is at peace with the decision, thanked the clubs he has played for at all levels and his family for their neverending support.

“There’s part of me that’s sad I won’t be playing anymore, but there’s a part of me that’s excited to experience something else,” Tate said.

“I’d like to sincerely thank my family first and foremost, all the players and coaching staff that I’ve been in contact with throughout my career and all the members and fans who have supported me over such a long period.”

Tate will not be lost to the Cowboys, though, with the now retired centre to work in the commercial sector at the club.

“Brent’s record as a footballer at club and representative levels is outstanding even before you consider the setbacks he had to overcome to achieve everything that he did,” Cowboys CEO Peter Jourdain said.

“The courage and determination he showed to always get his mind and body right after serious injury was exemplary.

“In the four years he’s had at the Cowboys, we’ve seen all that makes him such a great player and person.”

For Tate, although he is now retired, he looks forward to life after footy and working with the club in a new capacity.

“One of the best decisions I ever made was deciding to come to North Queensland,” he said.

“We’ve loved our time in Townsville and it’s great that it’s going to continue after football.”