The Journey of NRL Rookies: From Rookie of the Year to Life After Rugby

🌟Mark McClendon had an impressive rookie season for the Raiders, playing 165 games and later becoming a co-director of a fitness company.

💪Michael V's rookie season led to representing his state and country, playing for the Eels and eventually becoming the host of NRL TV show NRL 360.

🏉Tessa La'a surprised everyone by signing an NRL contract despite never playing rugby league. He went on to have a successful career in the NRL and Super League.

🏆Matt Utai had an impressive rookie season with the Bulldogs, scoring 13 tries and winning a Premiership. He now spends time with family and works as a coach.

🌍Israel Folau made a name for himself in his rookie season with the Storm, scoring 21 tries. He switched sports multiple times, playing AFL, rugby union, and returning to rugby league.

What happened to Jared Hayne after his NRL career?

—Jared Hayne's career took turns in different sports, including American football and rugby union, but he is now serving jail time after being convicted of sexual assault.

How many games did Chris Sandal play in his rookie season?

—Chris Sandal only played 13 games in his rookie season but was still able to win the Rookie of the Year award.

What career changes did Tim Smith make after his NRL career?

—After his NRL career, Tim Smith went on to play rugby union and switched back to rugby league. He currently plays in Japan and represents the Tonga international team.

How many tries did Matt Utai score in his rookie season?

—Matt Utai scored 13 tries in his rookie season with the Bulldogs.

What other sports did Israel Folau play after leaving the NRL?

—Israel Folau played AFL and rugby union before returning to rugby league for a brief period. He currently plays rugby union in Japan.

00:01Introduction to the video and the topic of NRL Rookies who have won the Rookie of the Year award.

02:13Mark McClendon's impressive rookie season for the Raiders and his career after rugby league.

04:32Michael V's rise to success after his rookie season with the Eels.

06:02Tessa La'a's surprising NRL career despite not having previous experience in rugby league.

08:49Matt Utai's standout rookie season with the Bulldogs and his post-rugby league life.

09:41Israel Folau's incredible rookie season with the Storm and his career in various sports.

11:23Chris Sandal's short but impactful rookie season and his career after rugby league.

13:45Conclusion of the video, summarizing the journeys of the NRL Rookies who won the Rookie of the Year award.