Mitchell Pearce, a former halfback for the Knights and Roosters, has talked candidly about his struggles with alcohol, admitting he gave up the beverage while playing in the Super League.
During an interview with Yvonne Sampson on Fox League’s Face-to-Face, Pearce disclosed that he has undergone significant positive transformations in his life.
Although the 35-year-old’s rugby league skill was undeniable, his off-field misbehavior appeared to be preventing him from realizing his full potential.
In 2016, after the controversial events on Australia Day, Pearce said he had a “problem with alcohol and it’s something I need to address.”
“I didn’t make any significant changes until my second year in the Super League; I stopped drinking and made some really good friends there,” Pearce remarked.
Tyrone May, who turned out to be one of my closest friends, and Michael McIlorum, one of the greats over there. There, we had a strong brotherhood and were close friends.
“All three of us, the guys having given up alcohol before me, were great role models for me in terms of quitting and putting a strong emphasis on lifestyle.
That’s the reason I returned with a fresh viewpoint—it’s been an issue for me my entire life and work. Really, you’re unaware of it until you give up.
“You kind of reflect and realize, “Oh, I kind of ruined that bit there. If I had given it up sooner, my life would have been more balanced.
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