Rabbitohs hooker Brandon Smith has opened up on his addiction journey, revealing he’s more than 300 days sober after a troubling period.
Smith went into rehabilitation over the off-season to deal with alcohol issues after a year where he had to face court in Queensland over charges relating to drugs and betting offences.
Brandon Smith on 100% Footy. Nine
He was released early from the Roosters mid-season and joined arch rivals the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
On Nine’s 100% Footy, Smith was asked by Paul Gallen about his rehabilitation and sobriety and explained he now has the desire to help others in similar situations.
“It’s going awesome, I’m glad you asked because the more people that know about this the better because I want to try and inspire other people,” he said.
“I’ve had a great career and had a lot of fun but sometimes I feel that fun can get away from you and I feel like it did, particularly during my time at the Roosters.
“I’m over 300 days sober now.”
Smith’s reveal brought about applause from the audience and a smile from the man himself.
The hooker has had a rough run with injuries this season, hurting his calf in pre-season and again in April.
He has been a regular in the side since returning from that calf issue in May.
Smith admitted the injuries “tested” him during the sobriety.
“It hasn’t been easy, it’s been very hard. Especially through injuries it’s like what am I doing this for? I’ve given up something I love and nothing really good’s coming of it. That’s really been testing me,” he said.
“Thankfully I’m back on the field, I’m playing alright footy compared to what I was tossing up at the Roosters.”
The 30-year-old went on to explain how grateful he is for the support from the Rabbitohs before making it clear it was his sole decision to “change my ways” and go into rehabilitation.
Smith was then asked about the difference between playing in Melbourne and Sydney, having won a premiership at the Storm where the spotlight is nowhere near as heightened compared to the Roosters and Rabbitohs.
Brandon Smith. Getty
He admitted he thought he could “get away with more things” in Melbourne with less scrutiny.
Phil Gould probed Smith on his life outside of football, asking what he’ll do once his career is over.
“I don’t really know yet, that’s still part of a transition phase,” he replied.
“I know one thing, I don’t want to get digging holes, I want to be involved in rugby league. That’s my number one thing because rugby league has given me a lot of things in life … I just want to be part of rugby league for the rest of my life.”