NRL Player Profile: Joel Thompson

The footy’s back so it’s time to profile a player and who is better than the captain of the 2020 Indigenous team, Joel Thompson.

‘It was an honour to lead out the Indigenous players and play for our people as a proud Ngiyampaa man. It was a dream come true,’ Joel said.

This was a career highlight for a man who has been playing in the NRL since September 2008 when he debuted for the Canberra Raiders against Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.

After playing a range of sports including athletics, rugby union, AFL and soccer, Joel said he was drawn to League because he loved the team environment and having something to focus on.

‘My family were really into rugby league,’ Joel said.

‘My nan went for Manly and my pop went for the Roosters. Watching footy was a positive for my family; it brought us altogether.’

‘My idol was Steven Menzies who played 11 for Manly when I was growing up. To now be playing 11 at Manly is still surreal for me.’

After suffering multiple injuries over the years and experiencing the associated lows, Joel said he has learned that nothing in life comes easy and opportunities should not be taken for granted.

‘I have also learnt that to get where you want to be and to reach your goals requires commitment and determination and the importance of being a team player.’

‘I pride myself on doing my best to ensure I fulfil my role on the field to ensure the success of the team.’

Joel has also learned the value of having a positive mindset.

‘I have a passion to give back to the community and help others create a healthier mindset in order to reach their potential and live happier lives,’ he said.

‘I have learnt the importance of breaking the cycle in order to make something of myself for my children’s future.’

‘Football has also taught me the importance of giving back, for the good of the game and as a role model.’

Joel admits he had never considered himself a high profile Indigenous Australian, but as a proud Indigenous man has tried to inspire others. He wants kids to stay in school, and to embrace failure knowing it’s part of gaining success.

‘To follow your dreams, set yourself goals and don’t give up. It’s not going to be easy but the journey will shape you and the outcome will hopefully be worth it.’

‘Go out there and get it done - it starts with you and your actions, the time is NOW.’

Finally, like all successful sportsmen and women, Joel recognises he hasn’t done this alone.

‘There have been so many ups and downs over the years. My biggest support through it all has been my wife, my pop and my nan.’

‘It’s particularly been the lows in my career where I have needed the support and have also unashamedly sought the help of professionals to keep me on track to overcome adversities.’

Congratulations Joel on a long and successful career and good luck on Sunday against Newcastle!