There are some cases where family takes credence above all and any other matters and for New Zealand Warriors forward Todd Lowrie, this is the case, with the club giving him an early release on compassionate grounds.
Lowrie, who has previously enjoyed stints with the Newcastle Knights, the Parramatta Eels and the Melbourne Storm, played in 21 matches for the Warriors this year.
Lowrie, who will head back to Australia with wife Sally, had the full support of the club when informing them of his decision.
“This is a case where family comes first for Todd, Sally and their young family,†said Warriors CEO, Wayne Scurrah.
“We’re disappointed to see him go. He has been really popular at the club and has made a fantastic contribution on and off the field but he has more important matters to worry about right now.
“We wish Todd and Sally all the best and just hope everything works out well for them.â€
For Lowrie, who enjoyed his time in Auckland as a player and as a resident, with family so important, it was the first thing on his mind.
“We love Auckland and had settled in well. It’s a great place to live and a fantastic club to be a part of,†said Lowrie.
“It’s really sad to be leaving so soon but family is the only consideration for us at the moment.â€