Justin Olam: Having a plan makes a big difference

In our series ‘Retired Rookies’, we catch up with some of the retiring Class of 2025 to look into what they have been doing in the first year post career. Justin Olam, who medically retired in 2025, reflects on the sudden shift out of the game, how he’s been navigating new routines and opportunities off the field, and the support he’s received from the RLPA’s Past Player & Transition Program in this next chapter.

What did Justin Olam do in the first year of his retirement from elite rugby league?

“I’m taking a year off to spend more time with my family and let my body recover properly. I’m still doing a bit of training and rehab to stay active.”

What did Justin Olam find most difficult about retiring?

“The toughest part about retiring has been watching my mates play and I’m no longer out there with them. I really miss that feeling of competing together each week.”

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

“I wish I knew how important it was to appreciate every moment because you never really know when your career will end. Having a plan makes a big difference too. It’s something I didn’t think about enough while I was playing.”

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

“The RLPA have been really supportive and helped make the transition into retirement much easier.

They’ve explained all the benefits available and encouraged me to use them. Since I retired medically, the medical support has been especially important in helping me take care of my injuries.”

What are Justin Olam’s career and life goals for the next few years?

“I’m still figuring out exactly what I want to do next. But I know I want it to involve helping people, especially young kids back home in PNG and here in Australia.

I was recently back in PNG doing some work with the PNG NRL, but I have also started my own charity called the Justin Olam Foundation, and looking at importing coffee beans into Australia.”

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

“Dayne Weston inspires me with how open he is about his experiences. He cares deeply about men’s mental health and is always willing to help through his Men of Gold project, which I think is brave and I respect so much. He also does incredible work as a firey and the way he lives out his faith is something I really resonate with.”