PRESS RELEASE: Brain Foundation Announces ex-NRL player Brett Kearney as ambassador

MEDIA RELEASE
For immediate release

BRAIN FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES BRETT KEARNEY AS AMBASSADOR

6 June 2023
Sydney, Australia

Renowned Former NRL Footballer Brett Kearney Appointed as Ambassador for the
Brain Foundation

The Brain Foundation is thrilled to announce the appointment of former NRL player Brett Kearney as its official ambassador. Recognised for his outstanding sporting career and commitment to raising awareness about brain health, Kearney brings a wealth of experience and passion to his role.

Brett Kearney has been passionate about rugby since he was young. He started playing at the age of 6 and signed his first contract with the North Sydney Bears at 14 years old. In 2003, aged 19, he made his First Grade Debut with the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Kearney quickly established himself as a talented and versatile player, and played both in Australia and overseas until retiring in 2014.

However, it is Kearney’s personal connection to the cause that makes him an ideal ambassador for the Brain Foundation. Concussions and head injuries are commonplace in contact sports. Kearney experienced the physical and mental challenges associated with brain injury, and saw many of his teammates go through the same thing. From concussion management to the importance of mental well-being, he understands the critical need for research, education, and support in this domain.

“At the start of my career, no one ever talked about the impact of a head knock,” Kearney says. “People would generally dismiss their symptoms or try to hide them because they wanted to get back on the field. I don’t think I ever really knew what concussion was … I feel the important thing is to talk openly about the risk and make sure that people are educated about the impact of head injuries and concussion.”

As an ambassador for the Brain Foundation, Kearney aims to raise awareness about brain-related conditions, such as traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke, and other neurological disorders. By leveraging his influential voice and extensive network, Kearney hopes to educate the public, break down stigmas, and promote the importance of brain health and research.

“I’m excited to be an ambassador for the Brain Foundation for a few different reasons. It wasn’t until late in my career that I started to look for a deeper understanding of brain injuries … Now that I’m starting to learn more, I want to help raise awareness and promote the importance of research.”

Brain Foundation Australia Chief Operating Officer, Angela Smith noted “The Brain Foundation is excited to have Brett Kearney join our team and we look forward to collaborating on initiatives that will positively impact the lives of individuals and families affected by brain-related conditions. Kearney’s dedication, empathy, and strong community values make him an exceptional advocate for our cause”.

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About the Brain Foundation

The Brain Foundation is dedicated to funding the highest quality Australian research into neurological disorders, diseases, and injuries, with the ultimate goal of advancing diagnoses, treatments, and patient outcomes. Established in 1970 by neurologists and neurosurgeons, the Brain Foundation has been supporting Australian neuroscience for over 50 years. In addition to their research program, they provide resources & events to raise awareness, support patients, and educate people about neurological conditions.

For further information contact:
Angela Smith
Chief Operating Officer
[email protected]
02)9437 5967