Perhaps a surprise to many, Sandor Earl has made the decision to hang up his rugby league boots.
Earl, a former Canberra Raiders, Penrith Panthers and Melbourne Storm centre/winger, decided to stop playing and instead focus on other business ventures.
The 31-year-old Earl broke the story to SEN’s Jimmy Smith on radio earlier this afternoon.
Earl’s decision comes after he played 56 NRL games in total.
“I haven’t announced it, so it’s a bit of a scoop, but I’ll be hanging up the boots,” Earl said.
“I suppose a combination of things, but I guess the people who know me and are closest to me have a pretty good understanding… rugby league has been everything for me.”
Earl, who has had a different rugby league journey than some, admits that despite the rollercoaster, he has enjoyed every minute.
“It’s been a dream come true, it’s what I’ve dedicated my whole life to, and I’m really proud, even taking into consideration the rollercoaster it’s been, proud of the things I’ve achieved,” Earl continued.
“It’s a bit of a rip the bandaid moment.
“Transitioning is never easy but there’s so much stuff I want to do off the field… I guess there’s another life I want to pursue.”
Earl still believes he could contribute on the field but the decision to retire was his, as he looks to focus on other opportunities.
“I’m not old, I’m 31, and no doubt I believe I could contribute on the field,” Earl said.
“But I really want to dedicate my 30s to embark on this journey to create something pretty special.
“What that is I haven’t quite nailed it, but I know it’s going to be good and it’s going to be fun.”
Earl had previously been suspended for four years after a drugs ban for drug trafficking and using performance-enhancing substances.
