Hull FC forward Mike Burnett has expressed his devastation after being forced to retire from rugby league due to a back injury.
The 24-year-old had surgery three times this year in a bid to repair two prolapsed discs in his lower back but has been advised by doctors to hang up his boots. State of Mind have seen first hand the difficulties long-term injuries can cause players both physically and mentally.
“I spoke to the specialist last week and he told me that’s it,” Burnett told the club’s official website. “It’s not nice to hear that sort of news but it’s part of the game we play, it could happen to anyone.
“It’s been a really tough year for me and I’ve had three operations in nine months. It’s a slow process with having to speak to so many specialists.
“The injury’s really interfering with my everyday life and I’m struggling to do normal things let alone start any rehab. “I’m not sure whether I’ll stay involved in the sport or look for something outside of rugby league yet but I’m a big believer in that as one door closes, another one opens.
“I’ve loved every minute of it, the highlights for me have been to just even make it as a Super League player. It’s tough to get there and just to make it was an achievement I can be proud of.”
State of Mind would like to wish Mike all the very best for the future.