Parramatta Eels second-rower Andrew Davey has announced he has retired from the NRL after repeated concussions and advice from medical experts about head trauma.
The 31-year-old notched up 44 NRL games across five seasons with the Sea Eagles, Bulldogs and Eels.
He was contracted to the Eels until the end of 2024, but has made a decision to call it quits following a series of worrying concussions throughout his career – several of which have occurred in the last 12 months.
‘For a battler from Central Queensland who wasn’t supposed to play one game of NRL, this career has plenty for me to be proud of,’ Davey said in a statement.
‘It may not be the ending I would have liked, but truth is, I lived my fairytale for five years.
‘I’d like to thank the Parramatta Eels admin staff, the medical team and all coaches at the club. The genuine care and support I received throughout this process is greatly appreciated and I couldn’t ask for better treatment in making this decision.
‘I’m extremely grateful to have such supportive family and friends and I’m also proud of the lifelong friendships I made during my time in the NRL.’
Davey’s most recent concussion occurred defending a kick return in the round-24 defeat to the Broncos, with the star needing to be helped from the field.
He joins a host of NRL players who have been forced into retirement due to head knocks, including Roosters duo Jake Friend and Boyd Cordner.
Eels GM of Football Mark O’Neill was full of praise for the hardworking forward.
‘Andrew has always had a great work ethic, his desire and drive to make it in the NRL is admirable,’ he said.
‘He has set himself up for success outside of football and we wish him all the best for his future.’
Popular online sports physiotherapist Brien Seeney, known as NRL Physio on X (formally Twitter), paid tribute to Davey after his announcement.
‘Very sorry to see Andrew Davey forced into early retirement after advice from medical professionals,’ Seeney wrote.
‘He had suffered at least two concussions this season & several over his career.
‘Putting his long term health first, wish him the very best in retirement.’