Tom Symonds

Sometimes, some situations just become untenable and players feel that the only way to move on and forward with their career is to seek a move, and for Roosters back-rower Tom Symonds, he’s done just that – with the club releasing him effective immediately to join the Manly Sea Eagles.

Symonds, who has strong ties to the Roosters club and organisation being a local junior, made his debut in 2009 and whilst it was an incredibly tough decision for him to make, he hopes that a new team brings new opportunities for him in footy.

“I’m heartbroken to be leaving the only club I have ever known, but this has been my decision to make and as tough as it’s been to do this, I feel that it’s in my best interests,” said Symonds.

“The Roosters have been great to me and from my teammates to all the staff, I’ve made so many friends here. It’s felt like family and the club and everyone associated with it will always hold a special place in my heart.

“But at the same time, I’m looking forward to a fresh start and to hopefully having the opportunity to play some more regular first grade footy.”

Trent Robinson, the Roosters coach, praised Symonds for being a part of the club’s system for a while and wished him all the best in his move to Manly.

“Tom has been a great player for this club and has been a vital link to our community for many years,” said Robinson.

“He is an honest and good man who we will miss greatly here at the Roosters. Manly are lucky to have a man of his character joining them and we wish Tom every success at his new club.”

Brian Canavan, the Sydney Roosters Chief Operating Officer also praised Symonds and what he has done at the club – but said the club did not want to stand in the way of Symonds, given the new opportunity.

“Tom is a local junior who has worked his way up through the lower grades and it is with disappointment we see him go, but the way in which he has handled this process is testament to both his intelligence and character,” said Canavan.

“He has a lot to offer the NRL and the club’s decision to grant Tom a release was based on what we consider in the best interests of his long-term playing future.

“Tom has been a fantastic clubman both on and off the field, and on behalf of everyone associated with the Sydney Roosters, we wish Tom all the very best and thank him for his outstanding contribution to our club.”

By ricky

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