Richard Swain knows his transition from rugby league to ‘normal’ life has been smoother than what could have been.
It is a much-told story of players struggling to adapt to life once the spotlight goes away.
Retirement can often be a lonely existence but luckily for Swain it has proven to be quite smooth.
Be there for our next home game at AAMI Park in Round 5, Saturday 1 April at 7:30pm.
The former Storm hooker currently works in the mining industry and has been there for the most part since ending his career with English Super League side Hull F.C in 2007.
“I got into mining after my career through my wife’s family,” Swain said.
“It was great to have something to transition straight into post rugby league, that helped me a lot.
“I’ve seen guys that I’ve played with where that transition hasn’t been quite so smooth, I really feel for those guys. I know I have been very fortunate.”
Swain played 132 games across four seasons for Melbourne.
He was an integral part of the 1999 premiership team and a foundation player.
Those two ties are enough to bond a player to a Club for life, which is the reason Swain still feels a sense of purple pride today.
“Winning a premiership, you always have that bond with that group of guys for life,” Swain said.
“I’ve been to the Old boys weekends and they are great, seeing all the familiar faces.
“The Club is always in the back of my mind, I still keep tabs on Storm and how the boys are going.”
Swain last pulled on the purple jersey in 2002.
Now it is 15 years on and he still lives long in the memory of Storm fans to this day.
