Sharks forward Dale Finucane announces retirement due to concussions

Highly respected Sharks forward Dale Finucane has made the difficult decision to retire from rugby league effective immediately on medical advice due to concussions. The 32-year-old revealed in a press conference at Shark Park that he had been advised by two medical experts to hang up his boots.

Finucane expressed his disappointment at having to retire, stating that he had explored all possible avenues to continue playing but ultimately had to prioritize his health. He credited Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon and the club for their support during the process, highlighting their commitment to putting his health first.

The veteran forward has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons, including a facial fracture earlier this year and a bicep injury that sidelined him for half of the 2023 season. Despite these setbacks, Finucane enjoyed a stellar career spanning three clubs, with 251 NRL games under his belt, five State of Origin appearances for the Blues, and two premierships with the Melbourne Storm.

Finucane made his NRL debut with the Bulldogs in 2011 before joining the Storm in 2015 and eventually signing with the Sharks in 2022. Fitzgibbon praised Finucane’s impact on the club, labeling his signing as one of the most important in Sharks history.

As Finucane embarks on the next chapter of his life, he leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, leadership, and selflessness that has left a lasting impact on his teammates and the clubs he represented. The NRL community will surely miss his presence on the field, but his health and well-being remain the top priority as he transitions into retirement.