Kieran Foran has been a formidable journeyman throughout his 17-season NRL career.
While playing over 300 games, representing his country, and winning a premiership with the Manly Sea Eagles were all profound victories for Foran, the 34-year-old has revealed his proudest, and most vulnerable, accomplishment.
Speaking on SENs The Run Home, Foran delved deep into a particularly dark moment of his rugby league career, following the announcement that he would be hanging up the boots.
“The thing I'm most proud of is overcoming the fact that there was a stage of my life that I lost my way,” Foran admitted.
“I wasn't the best human being; I was making poor decisions.
“I was battling addiction issues."
While the Gold Coast Titans' halfback has been a beloved figure in football for nearly two decades, Foran conceded that the man he is now deserves more praise than the one generating highlight reels in years past.
“To think I am able to stand here now and hold my head up high and be proud of the man, father, and teammate I am, that's the thing for me that makes me emotional.”
As Foran starts to consider life post-footy heading into his 310th game this weekend, the Kiwi international says his past demons are what will drive his future ambitions.
“The awards and accolades that's great but becoming the best version of yourself is what it's about,” he said.
“Overcoming the biggest difficulties in life. I don't want to see lives lost to those situations. I don't want people to feel like it's time to give up. You can come out of the other side and feel proud.
“The mental health stuff is something I am extremely passionate about. I have been very open on that and touching on my own life's challenges. Battles that I have faced personally. I want to help young guys not feel alone.”
Foran's compassion and drive will serve him as he moves onto bigger things post-retirement, a major accomplishment for a man who has done it all in the NRL
