The Toyota Forklifts Canberra Raiders can confirm Tom Starling (Raider #362) will depart the club to take up another opportunity.
Tom Starling arrived at the Raiders from Newcastle in 2019 before going on to play 155 games, becoming the 26th player to play 150 games for the club.
Starling made his club debut in 2019, coming off the bench in round 12 in a 12-10 win over the Bulldogs.
Tom will be remembered as a player who gave everything for the green jumper on the field, and a character off the field.
Starling had a long list of people to thank and will always be grateful for his time at the Canberra Raiders.
“To the fans, thank you for supporting me through thick and thin. To all the coaches, they always had my best interests at heart and played a massive role in getting me to where I am today.”
"To the front office staff, thank you for welcoming me into your club. To the players, I’ve made so many friendships for life and that’s what I love the most about playing footy. And finally Ricky, he took a gamble on a kid and changed my life forever. He helped me live out my dream here and I’ll forever be in debt to him,” Starling said.
Raiders CEO Don Furner said Starling will not only be remembered for his passion and spirit for the jersey but ultimately his presence around the club.
“Tom has been one of the best guys to have in your club. He always gave 100% on the field and played well above his weight. To play over 150 games for the one club is a remarkable achievement and we will always be grateful for Tom’s commitment to the jersey,” Furner said.
“He is a much-loved player amongst the playing group and within the fan base. We wish Tom and his family all the very best for the future,” Furner said.
“Tommy would always be welcome back and I wouldn’t be surprised if that happened down the track,” Furner added.
The Raiders would like to thank Tom for his contribution to the club and wish him all the best for the future.
