Former NRL forward Dayne Weston values the position he has as he takes his cautionary mental health story to today’s players.
Now 39, he had stints with Cronulla Sutherland, North Queensland, Penrith and Melbourne 2007-2015 before finishing his playing career in England while contending with personal challenges along the way.
He has since become a strong voice among former players spreading his message to today’s generation.
Weston recently visited the One New Zealand Warriors to tell the club’s NRL players and staff about his experiences, how he fought inner battles but found a way back.
“I’ve come here to share my story. Wellbeing and the mental health space has been important to me,” he said.
“I’ve been through my own journey with it. I’ve got a gift, my life, to go out and share that with other people. It’s just all about our own vulnerability, giving men an understanding to be open and share how we’re feeling.”
Weston, who established a men’s group called Men of Gold, was grateful for the response he received at the Warriors.
“It was pretty cool (being here). I don’t take these opportunities lightly so to come over (to the Warriors) and do it, I’m very appreciative.
“I could tell the eyes were invested from the get-go. I think what’s important for me is how I can relate to the players as I’ve sat in these chairs. I’ve heard these conversations. When it comes from an ex-player and someone who has walked the journey, they can relate to it so much. I felt like I had their attention the whole time.
“I heard them talk afterwards about the impact it had on them, that’s the thing that gets me. If I can help one person I’ve done my job. That’s the mindset I always have.”
