Player Portal Blog

Dean Widders: the pride and passion of indigenous players

Written by Steve McCormack | Feb 23, 2024 3:10:13 PM

On my recent fact-finding trip to Australia I caught up with former Castleford Tigers player Dean Widders, who now works as Indigenous Player Welfare Manager with the NRL.


In our fascinating chat, Dean spoke about his role and some of the issues he helps indigenous players with, including access to education and employment, gambling problems and addiction.

 

 

He also spoke passionately about the pride Australia's indigenous people have in their culture and how that culture help shape their identity.  

Our biggest focus is to make every player a better man off the field and make the game better for everyone involved, including all the families.

 

Quote

 

"Every man’s ability may be strengthened or increased by culture”

 

- John Abbot