Aaron Woods: If I’m ever in doubt, I can reach out anytime

In our series ‘Retired Rookies’, we catch up with some of the retiring Class of 2024 to look into what they have been doing in the first year post career. Aaron Woods spoke to the importance of identity, and how the RLPA’s Past Player & Transition Program has helped him in his transition into retirement.

What did Aaron Woods do in the first year of his retirement from elite rugby league?

“My first year out of rugby league, I’ve been very fortunate to work in breakfast radio in Sydney with Triple M. It was something I’d been working hard toward while I was still playing, and when a spot opened up, I was lucky enough to get the opportunity.

I’ve also become an ambassador for a couple of companies, which has been great to work and learn in different industries.”

What did Aaron Woods find most difficult about retiring?

“The biggest challenge has been adjusting to the structure of the job I’m in now compared to when I was playing. My hours are completely different to the standard footy routine I’d followed for the last 15 years. Working in a much smaller team was also an adjustment, but at the same time, I’ve really enjoyed it.

It’s been a huge eye-opener stepping out of footy, especially when it’s all you’ve ever known.”

What does Aaron Woods wish he knew about retirement that he didn’t know when he was playing?

“I probably wish I knew how different the goals are. When you play, everything is week-to-week, make semis, win on the weekend, hit your targets.

In the workforce, it’s not about week-to-week results. You work together over longer periods to get a win for your job or team you’re working for. So I’ve had to learn to be more patient. Some things take weeks, some months, some even years.”

How is the RLPA’s Past Player & Transition Program helping Aaron Woods in his transition and retirement?

“The RLPA has been outstanding for me. I’m very lucky to have big Joe Galuvao checking in with me regularly and keeping me connected to the footy world.

We don’t just talk footy either, we talk about how I can be better at work, at home with my family, and just be a better person overall. The support Joe and the RLPA provide goes way beyond just your career.

Joe’s also so easy to contact, and if I’m ever in doubt, I can reach out anytime, morning or night, and he always has an answer. I’m very grateful for that.”

Aaron Woods with RLPA’s Joe Galuvao

What are Aaron Woods’s career and life goals for the next few years?

“My main goal right now is to be consistent with our radio show and do the best job we can.

At some point, I want to get involved in rugby league again. I love being around the game, but I’d like to work with juniors, whether it’s pathways or development, and give back to a sport that gave me everything.”

Who is a former player that is doing well in retirement who really inspires you?

“I’m very lucky to work with an ex-teammate in Beau Ryan. What he’s done after footy is incredible. I see every day how hard he works and how much time he gives to others, it’s bloody inspiring.

Also, Dene Halatau. He’s a really good mentor to me. I played with him, looked up to him, and I can call him anytime for great and honest advice. Seeing what he’s doing in the game now, especially around concussion, has really opened my eyes to a much bigger world.”