NRL fans are showering Cameron Munster with praise after the Melbourne Storm star bravely opened up on his previous gambling addiction, and how it affected his family and loved ones. Speaking out as part of Gambling Harm Awareness Week – orgnised by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission – Munster spoke openly and honestly about having to go to rehab in 2021.
The Queensland and Kangaroos star has come out the other side, and is speaking out in the hope his story can help others. “I had an issue,” he said. “I didn’t understand how much of a toll it was taking on me and my family.”
Cameron Munster didn’t realise how much his habits were affecting his family, including wife Bianca. Image: Getty
Munster now has three children with wife Bianca, but at the time he was living a much more care-free life. “I probably didn’t have any responsibilities at the time,” he said.
“I think for myself I was very outgoing and had a very addictive personality. You could definitely tell the bubbly person I am and the personality around people that if I got angry or moody you definitely knew something happened and it was mainly to do around gambling.
“It’s always good to have a good time but last thing you want to have is that emotional toll towards friends and family and making it a very miserable day for yourself.”
Cameron Munster in action for Melbourne Storm in the NRL grand final. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)
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Munster said he now sets deposit limits for himself, and is urging others to do the same. “For me I never put a deposit limit down at the start of my life and now I do and I set limits to myself,” he added. “If I can help someone in any way to make that small step is something I’ll be very thankful for.”
Fans were full of praise on social media for Munster’s bravery, and the powerful message he’s trying to send. One wrote: “Finally an influential Aussie speaking up against one of, if not the most harmful addictions in Aus. Australians per capita gamble (and lose) more than any other country every year. Good work speaking up.”
Another commented: “Gambling can ruin lives and we need to protect the kids coming through. Takes leadership though, something we are sorely lacking.” While a third added: “Good on you brotha!! You can help others who are going through similar problems!”
Sam Docherty speaks out on gambling issues
Retired AFL star Sam Docherty also shared his story on Monday. The 32-year-old played 184 games across stints with Carlton and Brisbane before hanging up the boots this year.
“It’s like anyone. There’s so much stress in everybody’s lives and where that stress or that outlet ends up being for you can lead to a spot where you’re doing stuff you ideally shouldn’t be doing as much,” he told 3AW radio.
Sam Docherty hugs Carlton teammate Zac Williams after his last AFL game. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
“One part is recognising that and the other part is then putting in healthy steps to be able to do that. I always say I’m not here to tell everyone not to gamble, that’s not the story I want to tell … it’s about setting the parameters and having conscious thought and boundaries and habits you’re comfortable with to be able to do that.
“When I was really struggling was between 18 and 24, and that’s the exact bracket where a lot of people struggle. Me as a 32-year-old now and with my struggles, I’ve done a lot of work on my life and have found myself in a good spot where I’m healthy and open and happy to have these conversations.”