Wade Graham: It takes time to adjust

In our series ‘Retired Rookies’, we catch up with some of the retiring Class of 2023 to look into what they have been doing in the first year post career. Wade Graham opened up about his time post footy, and his involvement with the RLPA’s Past Player & Transition Program.

What did Wade Graham do in the first year of his retirement from elite rugby league?

“I was fortunate enough to stay on in a staff capacity at the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks. I also had some media opportunities, which allowed me to stay involved in and around the game.

“Having those job opportunities definitely helped with my decision to retire when I did.”

What did you find most difficult about retiring?

“The hardest part about retiring was the change in structure and lifestyle. For so long, training and games formed the foundation of my weeks.

Everything was scheduled for us — we were lucky in that sense. We always knew exactly where we had to be, at what time, and even what to wear. Managing my own calendar and schedule has definitely been the biggest adjustment.”

What do you wish you knew about retirement that you didn’t know when you were playing?

“I wish l’d known just how important time management would be, and how different life would feel without the full-time demands of professional sport. It’s such a big part of your life for so long that when your career finishes up, it feels like a big part of you disappears with it. It takes time to adjust, to fill that gap, and to use the extra time that you now have in a productive way.”

How is the RLPA’s Past Player & Transition Program help Wade Graham in his transition and retirement?

“The Past Player & Transition Program helped me prepare for retirement. Hearing from other players who had retired before me, and the challenges they faced, made me more aware of what I might encounter myself.

“The program has also provided a bit of a safety net – a sense of security – knowing that if I do run into any issues, there’s a resource with a lot of experience that I can turn to for guidance.”

What are Wade Graham’s career and life goals for the next few years?

“I hope to stay involved in rugby league while continuing my work in media. I’ve always loved the game, and I’m grateful for everything it’s given me and my family. I feel very fortunate to remain involved in these ways post retirement.”