Alex McKinnon Leaves Knights Off-Field Role
"It's time for a new challenge."
IMAGE - Getty Images
Alex McKinnon says his off-field role with Newcastle helped him re-establish a sense of purpose but it's time for a new challenge.
Former NRL player McKinnon, who was paralysed during a game in 2014, has vacated his role in the club's player recruitment department which he held for around 18 months.
The 25-year-old will turn his attention to public speaking.
McKinnon was forced to give rugby league away when he suffered a devastating spinal injury in a tackle three years ago.
"It's hard telling people who have helped me so much over the last year-and-a-half, but I need to get out of my comfort zone," he said.
"I can't put all my eggs in one basket. I need to challenge myself and just go for it."
He thanked the club for providing an opportunity as he progressed through his rehabilitation.
"Having that sense of belonging - a lot of people in life seek that, and I got that back," he said.
"I've always had that through football. Obviously, I lost that getting injured.
"I found that again working at the club."
McKinnon said he hoped to inspire people as a public speaker, while he will also take on an external role as a scout.
"I can maybe help other people from my experiences," he said.
- AAP