Shaun Lane, a devoted player of the Parramatta Eels, is uncertain if he will don his jersey again, but he’s currently making a significant impact behind the scenes at the club. The 30-year-old forward, who has battled numerous injuries, is on an indefinite break from playing, a hiatus that may lead to his retirement.
During this time away from the field, Lane has earned a master’s degree in sports psychology and is focusing on the development of the Eels’ under-21 team and the NRL Women’s competition. He shared with Wide World of Sports that he wasn’t enjoying his football due to burnout and ongoing injuries, and he appreciated the club’s support in allowing him the time to recuperate and explore new avenues to contribute.
Lane believes that his personal experiences have equipped him with valuable insights to share with younger players. In collaboration with his brother Brett, a qualified physiotherapist, and South Sydney Rabbitohs’ Alex Johnston, who heads the cultural initiatives, Lane is committed to mentoring young athletes. He stated, “I help the players with the mental side of their game, while Brett takes care of their physical health, and AJ contributes invaluable personal experience and leadership qualities.”
Together, they are launching various programs aimed at the development of youth athletes from diverse sporting backgrounds. Lane expressed enthusiasm for this new chapter of his life, stating, “I feel like I have to do this, and there’s a chance I might return to the field… this is an exciting time for me.”
The trio has also established a website, www.proeraperformance.com, dedicated to assisting aspiring athletes in reaching their full potential both on and off the field. As he navigates this transformative period, Lane remains hopeful about the future, both for himself and the burgeoning talent at the Eels.