Episode 3 - ABF FIT Podcast- Tyrone Roberts – Culture, Community & Life After Rugby League

12 Mar

Future Immortals Tour Podcast | IN SPORT App

In this episode of the Future Immortals Tour Podcast, Bo de la Cruz sits down with former NRL playmaker Tyrone Roberts for a powerful and deeply personal yarn about culture, resilience and life after rugby league.

From his early days growing up across Bundjalung Country to his NRL debut with the Newcastle Knights, Tyrone reflects on the journey that shaped him — the family influences, the challenges, and the choices that ultimately defined his path.

But this conversation goes far deeper than football.

Together with Bo, Tyrone opens up about the pride he carries as a Bundjalung man, his connection to culture, and the powerful moment during his first NRL All Stars game when the war cry and traditional dance reminded him that he was representing far more than himself.

The conversation also explores the impact of the Future Immortals Tour, a program delivered in partnership with the Arthur Beetson Foundation, which brings former players into remote Aboriginal communities to connect with young people, share stories and strengthen cultural pride.

For Tyrone, those tours became something unexpected.

A reset.

A reminder of gratitude.

And a chance to reconnect — not just with community, but with other players navigating life after professional sport.

During the episode Tyrone also reflects on one of the most emotional moments of the tour program — learning that his mother had passed away while the team was travelling between remote communities.

It’s a moment that shaped his understanding of family, purpose and why giving back matters so much.

This is a raw and honest conversation about identity, responsibility and the power of community.

From growing up moving between towns in northern New South Wales, to playing nearly a decade in the NRL, to now helping inspire the next generation — Tyrone’s story is one of resilience, culture and legacy.

In this episode we talk about:

• Growing up on Bundjalung Country and the influence of family
• The pathway from Hunter Sports High to the NRL
• Playing for the Newcastle Knights and life in professional rugby league
• Representing culture through the NRL All Stars war cry
• The purpose behind the Future Immortals Tour
• Connecting with young people in remote Aboriginal communities
• Life after football and supporting other players through transition
• The personal loss that shaped Tyrone’s perspective on life and community

This episode is a reminder that sport is more than a game — it’s a platform for culture, connection and change.

Listen now exclusively on the IN SPORT App.

New episodes from the Future Immortals Tour series are released regularly, featuring athletes, ambassadors and community leaders sharing the stories that shape the future of sport.

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