THERE comes a time in a rugby league player’s career when they know that their longevity in the sport is dwindling.
For most, it comes after the age of 30 whilst injury can sometimes force other stars’ hands.
For former Salford Red Devils, Wakefield Trinity and Toronto Wolfpack winger Mason Caton-Brown, retirement from the sport came in 2019 – when he was just 26 years of age.
Branching out into the world of property, Caton-Brown now owns a hotel and has no intention to ever return to the sport of rugby league.
“While I appreciate everything rugby league has done for me and am grateful to have played at the top level, I don’t think I’d return to playing it again,” Caton-Brown told League Express.
“I had one too many concussions and, when weighing the risk versus the reward, it wouldn’t be worth risking my health.
“It’s unfortunate, as I’d love to still play, but the nature of the sport can be harsh on your body and health.”
That hasn’t stopped the 30-year-old from making it big in the world of sport, however, with Caton-Brown representing Jamaica in Rugby Sevens at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where he scored four tries after the nation finished 13th out of 16 countries.
Now, the flyer harbours the ambition to help Jamaica qualify for the Olympic Games in 2028.
“Representing my country at the Commonwealth Games is up there with the favourite moments of my life.
“I remember watching the opening ceremonies in my parents’ bedroom and wanting to be one of the athletes walking around the track, so it was a dream come true for my 10-year-old self.
“I do have ambitions for the Olympics. I think that for the 2028 games in Los Angeles, Jamaica will have a very strong chance of qualifying, and I would love to be a part of that.”