Parramatta great Peter Sterling says he'll donate his brain to science following new research confirming rugby league is not immune from the degenerative brain disease, CTE.
A groundbreaking study from Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, NSW Health Pathology and the University of Sydney's Brain And Mind Centre, found evidence of CTE - a condition linked to repeated knocks to the head - in two deceased rugby league players.
Sterling, an Eels legend who won four premierships with the club and represented the Blues and Australia, said the decision wasn't an easy one.
Speaking on Macquarie Sports Radio, Sterling revealed his concern about the implications of concussions in the game and will donate his brain to help future generations better understand the risks associated with playing rugby league.
"This has been an ongoing concern as we learn more. There are going to be more results come out,” he said.
“In fact, Peter FitzSimons has been in touch with me in regards to donating my brain once I pass, which I’ve said yes to. I think all of those kinds of things are going to help those players yet to come.
“I’m not scared, I think concerned is the word. My memory is not what it was 10 years ago but whether that’s because I’m getting close to 60, that’s just the way that nature takes it’s course, I don’t know"
"I cannot recall ever being knocked out in a game, I don’t think I suffered serious bouts of concussion. But I played over 220 first-grade games and a bit of rep football.
Replies
The fact Sterlo speaks to Peter Pirate tells me that Sterlos brain won’t be of much use to the scientists.
I heard this today on 954am and I thought to myself that you can't ever question this champion's commitment to the game of Rugby League and to the Eels for that matter. I love Sterlo.
Yer he is getting payed for it though
I offered my brain to science once I departed this life but they said they had more than enough vacuums and sent me home.
Didn't even get a lolly for being a good little boy.
My memrory is not what it used to be either, can't even remember the last time the Eels looked loke a FG NRL team.
Sterlo is a shot duck. He can’t remember being knocked out or being concussed during his career. He’s got some issues if he can’t remember.