A former Warrington Wolves man has been forced into medical retirement, meaning his rugby league career ends with immediate effect.
Ryan Matterson joined the Wolves on loan for the second-half of the 2025 season, and in that time he played eight matches.
The Parramatta Eels man took to social media to make his announcement, saying that, after battling with concussion problems throughout his career, the symptoms continues to worsen.
Matterson’s final game came for Warrington in their round 27 defeat to Hull KR at the end of last season. In May, he revealed he’d been having moments of blurred vision and headaches, which has now led to his retirement.
His emotional announcement reads in full: “The hardest part about chasing a dream is accepting when it’s time to let it go. Today, I’m announcing my medical retirement from rugby league.
“For many years, I’ve battled the effects of concussion and the symptoms that have come with it. I’ve tried to push through, manage it and keep doing what I love. But over time, the symptoms have become harder to live with, and unfortunately, they’ve continued to get worse.
“Eventually, you have to make the hardest decision of your life and walk away from the thing you love, in order to protect the life you have ahead of you. Rugby league was my childhood dream. I was incredibly lucky and privileged to live it for more than a decade. I gave everything I had to this game, and it gave me memories, friendships, lessons and experiences I will carry forever.
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“To my family, teammates, coaches, friends and everyone who has supported me, thank you. To the fans, thank you for believing in me, supporting me and riding every high and low along the way. I’ll never be able to put into words what that has meant.
“This decision hasn’t come easy and it hurts. I’m incredibly excited for what comes next. I have a new purpose, new dreams and a new chapter to write. I have every intention of using all that professional sport has taught me to help other people chase their dreams and become the best version of themselves. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Former St Helens half-back confirms retirement
Another man hanging up the boots this week is ex-Saint Moses Mbye, who most recently has been playing in the NRL reserve grade with Ipswich Jets.
Mbye joined Saints part-way through the 2023 season, and stayed for two and a half years before departing last September.
He made 62 appearances for the club, scoring six tries and kicking one drop goal in a one-point win over Salford in 2024.
He too took to social media to announce his decision, saying: “Officially retired. Forever in debt to the game!!
“What a ride it’s been…thanks to everyone who contributed to the memories. Thanks for the friendships we built and the opportunities presented. Rugby league truly is the greatest game of all. Can’t wait to ride the next roller coaster. Thank you”
