North Queensland Toyota Cowboys outside back Brendan Elliot knows the importance of preparing for life after football.
The 28-year-old, who was working full-time as a carpenter before signing with the Cowboys in January this year, is currently studying a Master of Cyber Security full time having already completed a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice earlier this year.
Elliot hopes that when he calls time on his playing career he’ll be able to work in the intelligence side at the national defence level.
“As footy players, we are pretty lucky having spare time in and around training,” Elliot said.
“My partner and dogs are down in Sydney, so it gives me a lot of free time to just study, so that’s how I’m spending a good portion of my time.”
Heading into his ninth season in the top grade in 2023, Elliot knows how important it is to take advantage of the resources the club and NRL provide to players.
“I suppose for me I’ve had a taste of what it’s like outside of football,” Elliot said.
“Before I signed up here, I was working full-time for a carpenter in Sydney. I didn’t think I’d be doing that at that age. I thought I’d be playing for ages, so for me studying now is something that’s extremely important.”
Having spent a season with the Leigh Centurions in the English Super League in 2021, Elliot says that the shift to online learning over the last couple of years has made finding the balance between training and study much easier.
“I was going to take back up the apprenticeship when I was in Sydney but with a playing contract, it’s a bit hard with the hands-on trade.
“I was overseas last year and I was able to continue my online studies. I think one of the best things to come out of COVID is online universities. The resources online are second to none.”
