MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 04: Adam Reynolds of the Broncoswarms up before the round five NRL match between Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos at AAMI Park on April 04, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
Decorated Broncos winger Corey Oates has announced his retirement from rugby league.
The 29-year-old will finish his career as a one-club player for the Broncos, having notched 216 appearances for Brisbane since making his NRL debut in Round 17, 2013, against the Storm.
The Baralaba product’s 121 tries rank him third on the Broncos all-time NRL try-scorers list, behind only Steve Renouf (142) and Darren Lockyer (122).
Oates, who also featured for Queensland in nine State Of Origin games, has become a fan favourite with the Bronxnation in a 12-season career highlighted by his strong running and tackle-busting ability.
Oates said: “When you have kids and family, and when you get to that point in your career, you evaluate what’s important – and I want to be part of my kids life and do as much as I can with them.
“The last 18 months haven’t been kind with my body and my injuries, but it’s my family that are my main priority now and that’s why I’ve made the decision to retire.
“I never thought I was going to play one game, let alone over 200. I never wanted to be the person who went one season too many and now is the right time for me to go.
“Coming from the bush where I grew up, playing for the Broncos was something I never thought possible.
“I would play in the backyard and commentate on my brother and I playing games of footy at Suncorp Stadium – chips and chases, scoring tries, and all that.
“You just never think you are going to be on that stage one day as part of the game you grew up watching on the TV.
“I got to play with some of the greatest players ever in this game and that is the biggest thing for me.
“I’ve made some great friends and some great memories – rugby league has given me everything and I will be forever grateful.
“I’ve always loved the club because it’s been my home since I left school and I won’t be a stranger, I’ll definitely be around the place.”
Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said: “Corey has given his all for the Broncos over more than a decade and he has left everything out on the field for our club.
“He is in a select handful of players to have recorded more than 200 games for the Broncos and it’s testament to his loyalty that he will finish his career as a one-club player.
“Corey is a favourite with so many of our members and supporters, he will certainly be missed on the field but he won’t be lost to the club.
“On behalf of the entire Broncos organisation, we wish Corey and his family all the best and thank him for his incredible contribution to the club.”
