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Matthew Lodge
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Matthew Lodge
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Matthew Lodge (born 31 May 1995) is a rugby league footballer who most recently played as a prop for the North Queensland Cowboys in the National Rugby League (NRL).

Key Information

He previously played for the Wests Tigers, Brisbane Broncos, New Zealand Warriors, Sydney Roosters and Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in the NRL.

Background

[edit]

Lodge was born in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

He played his junior rugby league for St. Patricks Blacktown before being signed by the Penrith Panthers.

Playing career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

He played for Penrith's NYC team in 2012.[2]

In September 2012, Lodge signed a contract with the Melbourne Storm starting in 2013. He played for the Storm's NYC team in 2013 and 2014. He was named at prop in the 2013 NYC Team of the Year.

Lodge playing for the Storm-Sharks in 2013

Wests Tigers

[edit]

In June 2014, Lodge joined the Wests Tigers mid-season for the remainder of the season,[3] joining their NYC squad. In Round 17 of the 2014 NRL season, Lodge made his NRL debut for the Tigers against his former team, the Penrith Panthers.[4] He made four first grade appearances for the year. He was described as a "110kg battering ram," who was "certain to feature in the regular squad next season."[5] Later in the year, he was chosen to participate in the NSW under-20s pathway camp.[6]

On 19 October 2015, Lodge was sacked by the Tigers after being arrested in New York City.[7] He was due back in court for sentencing in December after entering a guilty plea.[8]

Brisbane Broncos

[edit]

After spending some time with the Redcliffe Dolphins in the Queensland Cup, Lodge signed a 1-year contract with the Brisbane Broncos starting in 2018.[9]

Lodge made 22 appearances for Brisbane in the 2019 NRL season as the club finished 8th on the table and qualified for the finals. Lodge played in the club's elimination final against Parramatta which Brisbane lost 58-0 at the new Western Sydney Stadium. The defeat was the worst in Brisbane's history and also the biggest finals defeat in history.[10][11][12]

On 19 February 2020, Lodge suffered an ACL injury during pre-season training for Brisbane and was ruled out for an extended period.[13]

Lodge only featured in six games for Brisbane in the 2020 NRL season as the club finished last on the table.[14]

New Zealand Warriors

[edit]

Lodge agreed a midseason switch from Brisbane to the Warriors during the 2021 NRL season.[15] In the final round of the 2021 NRL season, Lodge was sent to the sin bin for a dangerous high tackle in the club's 44-0 loss against the Gold Coast.[16] In May 2022, Lodge was released from his New Zealand contract with immediate effect. Lodge was then paid out the remaining $700,000 of his contract in full by the club.[17]

Sydney Roosters

[edit]

Following his abrupt departure from the New Zealand Warriors, Lodge was signed to a short-term contract by the Sydney Roosters, joining the club in July 2022.[18][19] Following the clubs opening round loss of the 2023 NRL season, it was revealed that Lodge would be ruled out for an extended period after suffering a facial fracture.[20] On 19 June, it was reported that Lodge had been granted an immediate release from his Sydney Roosters contract.

Manly Warringah Sea Eagles

[edit]

It was announced on 10 July 2023 that Lodge joined the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles on a train and trial deal.[21] In round 21 of the 2023 NRL season, Lodge made his club debut for Manly in their 30-26 victory over rivals Cronulla in the battle of the beaches game.[22] On 5 August 2023, it was announced Lodge would miss approximately nine months with an ACL injury.[23] Lodge was limited to only nine games for Manly in the 2024 NRL season as they finished 7th on the table and qualified for the finals. Manly would be eliminated in the second week of the finals by the Sydney Roosters.[24]

On 17 January 2025, Lodge had signed a train and trial contract with the St. George Illawarra Dragons for the 2025 season.[25] Over the following hours, St. George coach Shane Flanagan had denied reports that Lodge had joined the team.[26]

On 7 February 2025, Manly and Lodge agreed to terms for him to return to the squad as part of the extended team and will play for the Manly NSW Cup team. Lodge also said he will continue working on a building site while he prepares for his second professional fight in the mean time.[27]

Lodge played 12 games for Manly in the 2025 NRL season as the club finished 10th on the table.[28]

North Queensland Cowboys

[edit]

On 2 December 2025, Lodge signed a one-year contract with the North Queensland Cowboys.[29]

Representative career

[edit]

Lodge has played for the Australian Schoolboys.

In 2011, Lodge played for both the New South Wales Under 16s and Under 18s teams.

In 2013 and 2014, Lodge played for the New South Wales Under 20s team. Lodge was representing the NSW under-20s side when he was given a 3-week suspension after he was televised with the word "CUNT" clearly written on his wrist strapping.[30][31][32]

On 2 May 2015, Lodge played for the Junior Kangaroos against Junior Kiwis.[33]

Statistics

[edit]

*stats correct as of the end of the 2025 season[34]

Year Team Games Tries Pts
2014 Wests Tigers 4
2015 8
2018 Brisbane Broncos 25 3 12
2019 22 1 4
2020 6
2021 12
2021 New Zealand Warriors 6
2022 8
2022 Sydney Roosters 9 2 8
2023 9
2023 Manly Warringah Sea Eagles 3
2024 9
2025 12 2 8
2026 North Queensland Cowboys
Totals 133 8 32

Assault charge and lawsuit in New York and NRL controversy

[edit]

On 16 October 2015, Lodge was arrested and charged with assault after he threatened two German tourists, chased them into a New York apartment building, and attacked a man who attempted to help. He proceeded to break into and smash furniture in the man's apartment, including punching a wall through the bathroom door where a nine-year-old boy was hiding, before being stopped by police.[35][36] He was initially charged with felony burglary causing injury, but it was reduced to a misdemeanor charge of reckless assault as part of a plea deal. The victims then filed a civil lawsuit against Lodge for US$2 million in July 2016. In December 2016, Lodge avoided jail time, and was ordered to complete 200 hours of community service, quit drinking, and receive alcohol abuse and anger treatment.[37][38] Lodge signed a 1-year contract worth an estimated AU$85,000 with Brisbane Broncos for the 2018 National Rugby League season. The NRL were scrutinised for supporting Lodge and allowing the deal to happen while the victims have not been legally compensated.[36]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Matthew Lodge

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Matthew Lodge (born 31 May 1995) is an Australian professional footballer who plays as a prop for the in the (NRL). Lodge was born in , , and began his junior career playing for St. Patricks before being signed by the ' under-20s side. He transitioned to the Storm's NYC team in 2013 and midway through the 2014 season moved to the , making his NRL debut that year against the . Over his career, Lodge has played 133 NRL matches across multiple clubs, including the (2014–2015), (2018–2021), (2021–2022), (2022–2023), and (2023–present), scoring 8 tries and accumulating 32 points. His achievements include winning the Anzac Cup in 2023 with the Roosters. In October 2015, Lodge was involved in a high-profile incident in , where, while intoxicated, he followed two tourists into an apartment building, assaulted one man, and threatened others, leading to his on charges of and . He was sacked by the and received an 18-month NRL ban; in 2016, a New York judge sentenced him to , programs, and instead of jail time, and in 2017, he was ordered to pay $1.234 million in damages to the victims. Lodge settled confidentially with the victims in 2018 and made his return to the NRL that year with the Broncos, sparking ongoing debate about his rehabilitation and second chances in the sport.

Early life and junior career

Birth and family background

Matthew Lodge was born on 31 May 1995 in , , . He was raised in the Blacktown area of western , where his family provided a supportive environment amid their involvement in . Lodge is the son of James Lodge, a with the State Crime Command, and Karan Lodge, a police sergeant stationed at Quakers Hill. His parents demonstrated strong familial support during challenging periods in his early adulthood, including traveling to New York following his 2015 arrest there. Lodge's initial exposure to rugby league came through the local community in , where he began playing at a young age. He developed an early interest in the sport via the St Patricks Blacktown junior club, which served as a key entry point into organized youth football in the region.

Junior rugby league development

Lodge began his rugby league journey playing for the St. Patricks Blacktown junior club in Sydney's western suburbs. He was selected to represent the Australian Schoolboys in 2012, showcasing his early potential as a promising front-rower. Following his schoolboy honors, Lodge signed with the and debuted in the National Youth Competition (NYC) for their under-20s side in 2012, appearing in matches such as the round-24 clash against the . In September 2012, he secured a contract with the effective from the 2013 season, transitioning to their NYC program without featuring in any first-grade games. During his time with the Storm's NYC team in 2013 and 2014, Lodge established himself as a dominant , earning selection in the 2013 NYC Team of the Year for his powerful running and tackling contributions. He played a total of 39 NYC games across his under-20s career with Penrith and , scoring 10 tries. In June 2014, the granted him an immediate release from his contract, allowing him to join the ' development pathway ahead of his NRL debut later that year.

Club career

Wests Tigers

Matthew Lodge joined the in June 2014 on a mid-season contract after being granted an immediate release from the Storm's National Youth Competition (NYC) squad, where he had been developing as a promising forward from the junior system. Lodge made his (NRL) debut as a in Round 17 of the 2014 season against the at , coming off the bench in a 26-10 loss. He appeared in four first-grade games that year, primarily as a rotation forward, contributing to the Tigers' pack without scoring any tries. In 2015, Lodge featured in eight NRL matches for the , again playing as a and logging significant minutes in the forward rotation alongside established players like . His performances were solid in a developmental role, with no tries scored across his tenure, but he showed promise in carrying the ball and tackling in high-pressure games, such as the Round 3 win over the where he helped control the middle field. Over his two seasons with the club, Lodge made a total of 12 first-grade appearances. Lodge's time at the Wests Tigers ended abruptly in October 2015 when the club terminated his contract following off-field incidents in New York.

Brisbane Broncos

Following clearance from the NRL's integrity unit regarding his prior legal issues, Matthew Lodge signed a one-year contract with the in November 2017, paving the way for his return to the top-flight competition in the 2018 season. The 22-year-old prop had spent the previous year rebuilding his career with the Broncos' feeder club, the , in the . Lodge quickly established himself as a of the Broncos' forward pack during his debut NRL season in 2018, appearing in all 25 games and averaging 130 metres gained per match alongside 23 tackles. His reliability and work rate earned him the club's Best Forward award, reflecting his rehabilitation and strong integration into the team. Impressed by this form, the Broncos extended his contract in December 2018 for two additional years through to the end of 2020. The 2019 season marked Lodge's most prominent year with the club, where he featured in 22 matches, contributing significantly to Brisbane's push to the finals as they finished eighth on the ladder. He averaged 153 metres gained and 29 tackles per game, while also ranking highly in post-contact metres at 50.2 per outing, which elevated his profile and led to consideration for representative honors. His consistent output in the middle prompted another extension in July 2019, securing his services for three more years until the end of 2022. Over his tenure from 2018 to 2021, Lodge made 65 appearances for the Broncos, scoring four tries and solidifying his role as a durable front-rower despite injury interruptions in later seasons like 2020, when he was limited to six games.

New Zealand Warriors

In July 2021, Matt Lodge signed with the New Zealand Warriors on a contract through to the end of the 2022 season, with an option for an additional year, following a strong performance at the Brisbane Broncos where he had averaged over 120 running metres per game in prior seasons. The move marked Lodge's first venture overseas, requiring relocation to Auckland amid the challenges of New Zealand's strict COVID-19 border protocols and isolation from his family in Australia. Lodge played 6 games for the Warriors in 2021 after joining mid-season. During the , he featured in eight games, starting in all of them and contributing to four wins and four losses, for a total of 14 appearances across both years with no tries scored. His in the new environment showed solid work in the forwards, averaging 113 running metres and 21 tackles per game across those matches, though he recorded only 18 tackle breaks total and no line breaks. Lodge adapted to the Warriors' pack by providing consistent go-forward ball, helping to support the team's improved form early in the year under coach Nathan Brown, but he faced ongoing personal adjustments including limited family visits due to travel restrictions. No significant injuries disrupted his play during this period. Lodge's time with the Warriors ended abruptly in May 2022 when the club granted him an immediate release from the remainder of his contract, paying out approximately $700,000 in owed salary. The departure stemmed from Lodge's growing unhappiness with life in , including his reluctance to permanently relocate his family, compounded by a heated public confrontation with Warriors owner Mark Robinson in a Brisbane pub. This allowed Lodge to return to after a brief but transitional stint that highlighted the difficulties of adapting to an overseas environment.

Sydney Roosters

Following his departure from the in May 2022, Matthew Lodge signed a short-term contract with the in July 2022 for the remainder of the , joining the club on a reduced salary as part of their forward pack depth. He played 9 games in 2022, scoring 2 tries. Lodge re-signed for a one-year deal ahead of the 2023 season. Lodge featured in nine NRL games for the Roosters in 2023, primarily as a providing rotational support in the forward pack alongside veterans like . His appearances in 2023 were limited by the club's depth chart and form considerations, with no tries scored and a win rate of 33% across those matches (three wins, six losses). In his role, Lodge contributed to go-forward momentum, averaging solid minutes off the bench, though his impact was curtailed by competition for starting spots. In June 2023, the Roosters informed Lodge that his contract would not be renewed beyond the season and granted him an immediate release after he was omitted from the first-grade squad, allowing him to pursue opportunities elsewhere mid-season. This marked the end of his tenure with the club, during which he had played a total of 18 games and scored 2 tries.

Manly Warringah Sea Eagles

Matthew Lodge joined the in July 2023 on a train-and-trial contract for the remainder of the season after being released by the . His strong performances in three NRL appearances that year, where he provided impactful runs from the front row, led to a one-year contract extension for 2024. However, an (ACL) injury sustained shortly after signing limited Lodge's involvement in 2024 to nine NRL games, primarily in the latter part of the season as he recovered. He featured in Manly's final four matches, contributing as a bench to bolster the forward pack during a challenging campaign marked by injuries. In February 2025, Lodge agreed to an extended squad deal with the Sea Eagles, structured to permit part-time work in and alongside his rugby duties, reflecting his need to supplement income on a minimum-wage arrangement. This agreement followed initial hesitation over a two-year extension offer, allowing him to balance off-field pursuits with training. Lodge played 12 NRL games for Manly in 2025, establishing himself as a reliable rotation forward while scoring two tries, including a late consolation effort against the in Round 24. He also appeared in five New South Wales Cup matches for the Workers Sea Eagles, using the lower-grade games to maintain fitness and push for more first-grade opportunities. As of November 2025, Lodge remains focused on securing a regular NRL role with Manly for 2026, amid reports of external interest from other clubs earlier in the year.

Representative career

New South Wales selections

Matthew Lodge's representative career with began at the junior level. In 2011, he made his debut for the Under-16 team, playing one game. The following year, in 2012, he earned selection for the Under-18 side, appearing in one match. Lodge continued with the state at under-20 level, playing in the annual Under-20 matches in both 2013 and 2014. He earned his first senior representative recognition with in November 2018 when he was selected in the 23-man Emerging Blues squad by coach , following a breakout season with the where he played all 25 games. The Emerging Blues program, designed to develop future State of Origin players, has previously featured talents like who progressed to the senior team. Lodge participated in the Emerging training camp in December 2018 at ANZ Stadium, where he impressed with his work ethic and physical presence as a , contributing to drills focused on Origin-style intensity. Fittler highlighted Lodge's selection as a "big call" given his past controversies, praising his redemption through consistent on-field performance. No further selections to senior NSW development squads, such as City Origin, were recorded for Lodge after 2018.

Other representative honors

Lodge's representative achievements beyond selections are at the junior international level, where he earned two caps for the Junior Kangaroos. His total representative games stand at six, comprising four for at junior levels and two for the Junior Kangaroos, all under-20 age groups. In 2014, he was selected as starting prop for the Junior Kangaroos' test match against the Junior Kiwis at in , contributing to a narrow 15-14 defeat. The following year, Lodge captained the Junior Kangaroos in their 24-16 win over the Junior Kiwis at Pirtek Stadium in on May 2, 2015, showcasing leadership in the front row. Despite his promising junior career, Lodge did not receive further representative honors, such as All Stars, , or senior international selection, and has no appearances.

Career statistics

NRL club statistics

Matthew Lodge has accumulated 133 appearances in the (NRL) across five clubs as of the end of the 2025 season. His scoring record includes 8 tries for a total of 32 points, with no successful goal kicks. Lodge's forward role has typically seen him average around 100 run metres per game in seasons with detailed tracking, alongside consistent defensive contributions exceeding 18 tackles per match at efficiencies often above 89%. In the 2025 season with the , Lodge featured in 12 games, scoring 2 tries for 8 points, while gaining 1,107 run metres (averaging 92 metres per game) and completing 182 tackles at 89.2% efficiency (182 successful from 204 attempts). The following table provides a year-by-year breakdown of Lodge's NRL club appearances, tries, and available run metres by club tenure:
Year(s)ClubGamesTriesRun Metres (Total)
2014–2015Wests Tigers120255 (2014 only)
2018–2021Brisbane Broncos6542978 (2018 only)
2021–2022New Zealand Warriors140N/A
2022–2023Sydney Roosters182N/A
2023–2025Manly Warringah Sea Eagles2421,107 (2025 only)
Totals derived from aggregated club data; run metres available for select seasons only.

Representative statistics

Matthew Lodge's representative statistics are confined to junior levels, as he did not feature in any senior or international matches despite selection in the 2019 Emerging Blues squad. His limited appearances came in the NSW Under-20s and a Junior Kangaroos test, totaling three games with no tries scored or points contributed. Detailed per-game metrics like tackles and minutes played are sparsely documented for these junior fixtures, underscoring the developmental nature of his representative exposure.
EventYearAppearancesTriesGoalsPoints
NSW U20s 20131000
NSW U20s 20141000
Junior Kangaroos (vs Junior Kiwis)20151000
Career representative totals: 3 appearances, 0 tries, 0 goals, 0 points.

Domestic violence allegations in Australia

In 2013, Matthew Lodge began a relationship with Charlene Saliba, which reportedly deteriorated into a cycle of physical and emotional abuse within months. In August 2015, Lodge was charged by police with eight domestic violence-related offenses against Saliba, including , or with intent to cause fear of physical or mental harm, and using a carriage service to menace, harass, or offend. These charges stemmed from alleged incidents occurring between 2014 and 2015, during which Lodge was playing for the in the (NRL). In May 2016, Lodge pleaded guilty to one count of as part of a deal, while the remaining seven charges were withdrawn by prosecutors. He received a good behaviour bond and avoided further penalties at the time. The had initially stood Lodge down from playing following the charges in 2015, in line with NRL protocols. The matter resurfaced publicly in March 2018 when Saliba provided a detailed account of the to media outlets, describing multiple eyewitnessed incidents of physical , including being punched, kicked, and thrown against walls, as well as ongoing verbal degradation. She alleged that Lodge had denied the assaults despite his guilty plea, prompting her to speak out to counter his claims of never having harmed a . Following the 2015 charges, the NRL Integrity Unit assessed the case and issued Lodge a formal warning, emphasizing that any further incidents would lead to a lengthy suspension, though no immediate ban was imposed after his 2016 plea. This response allowed Lodge to resume training and playing under supervision prior to subsequent events abroad.

New York assault and stalking charges

In October 2015, while vacationing in , Matthew Lodge engaged in a drunken altercation on Manhattan's , where he allegedly approached and followed two women into their apartment building after they rejected his advances, leading to charges of and . Lodge, who was heavily intoxicated, reportedly told the women, "This is the best night of your life," before pursuing them inside, where a male resident confronted and physically engaged him, resulting in additional charges against Lodge. He was arrested at gunpoint by police and faced initial charges including second-degree menacing, second-degree , second-degree , first-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree criminal trespass, and second-degree criminal mischief, which carried a potential sentence of up to 25 years if convicted on all counts. Following his arrest, Lodge was detained at , New York's notorious jail complex, over the weekend before posting $50,000 bail on October 20, 2015. The , his NRL club at the time, immediately terminated his contract, citing the severity of the allegations. A Manhattan judge issued a temporary order of protection barring Lodge from contacting the victims and required him to surrender his passport, restricting his travel. Lodge returned to in January 2016 under these conditions and entered a 28-day residential rehabilitation program for alcohol abuse and anger management as part of pretrial requirements. In December 2015, Lodge entered a deal, pleading guilty to a reduced charge of reckless , which carried a maximum one-year jail term. Sentencing occurred on December 19, 2016, when a New York judge rejected the victims' for incarceration and instead imposed no jail time, ordering Lodge to complete 200 hours of , undergo one year of , abstain from drugs and alcohol, and continue counseling. The judge lifted the travel restrictions and passport surrender, formally allowing Lodge's unrestricted return to and clearing the path for potential rehabilitation efforts. This U.S. case followed a pattern of earlier allegations against Lodge in earlier that year. The victims subsequently filed a civil against Lodge in December 2015, seeking compensation for emotional distress, medical expenses, and other damages from the incident. In March 2017, a District judge ordered Lodge to pay the three victims a total of US$1.234 million (approximately A$1.6 million) in damages. Lodge settled the civil claim out of court in June 2018, agreeing to cover the amount personally through a , thereby resolving the financial obligations stemming from the case.

Impact on NRL career and public backlash

In 2018, the (NRL) approved the registration of Matthew Lodge's contract with the , allowing his return to the competition after an initial rejection in 2017, following observations of his rehabilitation efforts while playing in Queensland's reserve grades. The decision came with explicit warnings that Lodge was on his "last chance," with any further indiscretions likely to result in a permanent ban. However, the clearance drew accusations of hypocrisy from NRL gender adviser Catharine Lumby and other experts, who argued it contradicted the league's public campaigns against violence toward women, such as Voice Against Violence. Public backlash was swift and intense, fueled by extensive media coverage of the 2015 New York incident's severity, including the release of CCTV footage depicting the assault. Victims expressed profound betrayal over the NRL's decision, with one stating they felt "let down" by the league's apparent prioritization of talent over accountability, especially as Lodge had not yet compensated them despite a court-ordered $1.6 million in damages. Fans voiced widespread anger on and through petitions, with long-time supporters threatening to abandon the club and boycotting sponsors like NRMA Insurance, citing concerns about Lodge serving as a poor for children. The controversies led to significant career repercussions for Lodge, including an effective two-year absence from the NRL from late 2015 to 2017, during which he was sacked by the and played only in lower-tier competitions while legal matters resolved; this included an 18-month ban from the NRL. Upon return, his contracts faced heightened scrutiny, often including behavioral clauses and limited duration; for instance, he was released by the Broncos in 2021 amid cultural fit concerns, and in early 2025, after receiving offers at the NRL of $150,000 per season, Lodge signed a part-time contract with the for the 2025 season, allowing him to combine playing in the with construction work. In a , Lodge reflected on the New York incident as a pivotal low point, stating that "something had to happen" to confront his issues with alcohol and , and expressing ongoing guilt toward the victims while emphasizing personal growth through counseling and family support.

Other pursuits

Professional boxing career

Matthew Lodge transitioned into in late 2024, seeking to diversify his athletic pursuits while maintaining his commitments. His debut occurred on November 24, 2024, at the Warehouse Rumble 3 event promoted by Wanderer Promotions, where he secured a second-round technical victory over experienced professional Alex Ale at the Bella Vista Hotel in . The stoppage win highlighted Lodge's raw power and aggressive style, drawing from his enforcer background in the NRL. Lodge maintained his undefeated record with a second professional bout on March 2, 2025, defeating Jonasa Kavika by in the second round at the Pizzi vs. Flood card, also held at the Bella Vista Hotel. As of November 2025, his record stands at 2-0, with both victories by stoppage in contests. This early success has positioned him for potential future matchups, including calls for bouts against high-profile figures like following his debut. Lodge's entry into was motivated by a desire to channel his physicality into a new , while balancing rigorous training with his NRL obligations. He prepared for fights through sessions at facilities like PCYC , emphasizing discipline and skill development alongside his football regimen. Promotional opportunities with Wanderer Promotions have facilitated his bouts, allowing him to compete on accessible cards without disrupting his primary career. His 2025 contract extension with the Manly Sea Eagles explicitly permits these boxing pursuits, integrating them into a broader agreement that also includes off-field work to support his professional stability.

Off-field work and personal development

In 2025, Matthew Lodge signed a part-time with the Manly Sea Eagles that incorporates off-field labor to promote work-life balance, allowing him to work three days a week on a site—a role he had maintained for the preceding six months. This arrangement supports his financial needs while committing to NRL training and reserve-grade play, reflecting a deliberate effort to integrate professional rugby with everyday employment. Following his 2015 controversies, Lodge engaged in extensive personal rehabilitation, including a six-week program in , followed by another six-week stint at a Castle Hill rehab clinic and ongoing weekly sessions there for a year. He also attended meetings and received multiple weekly individual therapy sessions at Hills Clinic in Kellyville, addressing alcohol dependency, family dynamics, and behavioral change as required by orders. These efforts extended to , such as at a in Emu Plains, and maintaining a year of negative tests for alcohol and drugs, demonstrating a commitment to sustained self-improvement. Lodge has emphasized family as a core aspect of his personal life, particularly in 2025, when he publicly advocated for positive at junior rugby events after observing his five-year-old son's first on Sydney's . As a father of four with fiancé Jessica O'Sullivan, he confronted inappropriate adult behavior, including a coach swearing at young players, and urged parents to prioritize enjoyment and encouragement over pressure. This involvement highlights his evolving perspective on fostering healthy environments for children. As of November 2025, Lodge continues to balance his NRL commitments with labor and pursuits, aiming for long-term stability across these domains.

References

  1. https://www.nswrl.com.au/players/nsw-cup/manly-warringah-sea-eagles/matthew-lodge/
  2. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/players/matt-lodge/summary.html
  3. https://www.weststigers.com.au/news/2014/07/06/matthew-lodge-to-make-nrl-debut/
  4. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2023/round-8/sydney-roosters-vs-st-george-illawarra-dragons/summary.html
  5. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/dec/20/former-nrl-player-matthew-lodge-avoids-jail-in-us-over-2015-rampage
  6. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-05/matthew-lodge-incident-horrifying-says-nrl-gender-adviser/9510634
  7. http://www.wigdorlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/3.31.17-Sydney-Morning-Herald.pdf
  8. https://www.espn.com/nrl/story/_/id/23847991/nrl-brisbane-broncos-matt-lodge-settles-new-york-victims
  9. https://www.zerotackle.com/players/matthew-lodge/
  10. https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/matthew-lodge-policewoman-mother-took-money-from-police-social-club-to-fly-overseas/news-story/7f6f17a5034e534e419fced892766c3d
  11. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/matthew-lodges-mother-concerned-for-sons-welfare-after-his-arrest-20151019-gkcg58.html
  12. https://18thman.com/players/matthew-lodge/
  13. https://www.espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id/17814076/troubled-nrl-player-matthew-lodge-seeks-lifeline-brisbane-broncos
  14. https://www.weststigers.com.au/news/2014/09/22/matthew-lodge-named-in-junior-kangaroos-train-on-squad/
  15. https://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/national-youth-competition-2012/round-24/warriors--y--vs-penrith-panthers--y-/summary.html
  16. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/not-many-players-come-back-and-stuff-up-again-i-m-proof-of-that-20180319-p4z541.html
  17. https://www.weststigers.com.au/news/2014/06/02/wests-tigers-sign-matthew-lodge/
  18. https://www.melbournestorm.com.au/news/2014/06/02/matthew-lodge-released/
  19. https://www.codesports.com.au/stats/nrl/players/matthew-lodge-113404
  20. https://www.weststigers.com.au/news/2014/12/24/2015-player-profile-matthew-lodge/
  21. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-10-19/tigers-sack-matthew-lodge-after-us-arrest/6864560
  22. https://www.broncos.com.au/news/2017/11/08/lodge-signs-one-year-deal-with-broncos-/
  23. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-07-01/nrl-brisbane-broncos-release-matt-lodge-to-warriors/100260656
  24. https://www.nrl.com/news/2018/12/06/matt-lodge-re-signs-with-brisbane-broncos-for-two-years/
  25. https://www.broncos.com.au/news/2018/12/06/lodge-thanks-members-as-he-locks-in-two-more-years/
  26. https://www.broncos.com.au/news/2019/10/22/lodge-thanks-hard-working-pack/
  27. https://www.nrl.com/news/2019/11/17/broncos-2019-season-by-the-numbers/
  28. https://www.nrl.com/news/2019/07/11/lodge-re-signs-with-broncos-until-2022/
  29. https://www.nine.com.au/sport/nrl/news-2021-matt-lodge-new-zealand-warriors-brisbane-broncos-contract-20210701-p5ito3.html
  30. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/nrl-controversial-new-warriors-signing-matt-lodge-paid-1-million-to-leave-broncos-report/DDSB6WC5BN3CMDREQLZQJ6UYMI/
  31. https://www.theroar.com.au/2022/05/24/its-illogical-for-lodge-to-attract-high-priced-contract-offers-based-on-actual-performance/
  32. https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-2022-new-zealand-warriors-matt-lodge-nathan-brown-why-did-lodge-quit-contract-deal-2023-reason-lodge-left-warriors/news-story/c1b6d284536370f2997bd104fe731eb7
  33. https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/league/warriors/128709998/matt-lodge-granted-immediate-release-from-warriors-contract
  34. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/467922/pub-confrontation-with-warriors-owner-behind-lodge-s-sudden-departure
  35. https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2022/05/20/lodge-granted-immediate-release/
  36. https://www.sportingnews.com/au/rugby-league/news/matt-lodge-signs-short-term-deal-sydney-roosters/a8bmiti8y2f5coxvnwho6rf0
  37. https://www.facebook.com/nrl/posts/roosters-prop-matthew-lodge-has-been-elevated-into-the-clubs-top-30-on-a-one-yea/10159961190758074/
  38. https://www.espn.com/nrl/story/_/id/37804023/nrl-matt-lodge-likely-leave-sydney-roosters-jared-waerea-hargreaves-deal
  39. https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-2023-sydney-roosters-grant-matt-lodge-immediate-release-lodge-exit-contracts-transfers-bulldogs-news-highlights/news-story/a1dd02c3d101430c5c7e1a86578683df
  40. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/roosters-give-lodge-permission-to-leave-immediately-20230619-p5dhm6.html
  41. https://www.seaeagles.com.au/news/2023/07/11/sea-eagles-sign-matthew-lodge/
  42. https://www.seaeagles.com.au/news/2023/11/27/experience-and-form-pays-off-for-matthew-lodge/
  43. https://www.seaeagles.com.au/news/2024/11/12/sea-eagles-farewell-departing-2024-players/
  44. https://www.seaeagles.com.au/news/2025/02/07/new-deal-for-lodge-at-manly/
  45. https://www.nine.com.au/sport/nrl/news-2025-manly-sea-eagles-matt-lodge-contract-boxing-20250207-p5laim.html
  46. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/why-clint-gutherson-is-already-shaping-up-as-the-nrl-buy-of-the-year-20250207-p5laf3.html
  47. https://tryline.com.au/players/554/matthew-lodge
  48. https://www.seaeagles.com.au/news/2025/08/17/match-report-round-24-vs-wests-tigers/
  49. https://www.zerotackle.com/another-club-sea-eagles-forward-matt-lodge-catching-outside-interest-225345/
  50. https://www.nswrl.com.au/news/2018/11/26/fittler-announces-emerging-blues-squad/
  51. https://www.nrl.com/news/2018/12/13/emerging-blues-prop-matt-lodge-grateful-for-latest-opportunity/
  52. https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/state-of-origin/brad-fittler-explains-his-thoughts-behind-inviting-controversial-brisbane-prop-matt-lodge-to-emerging-blues-camp/news-story/4b6660d3f31cd574b82bdb6b2c027c9a
  53. https://www.weststigers.com.au/news/2014/10/06/lodge-named-in-junior-kangaroos-team/
  54. https://www.nrl.com/news/2014/10/06/junior-kangaroos-team-named/
  55. https://www.weststigers.com.au/news/2015/05/06/captaincy-brings-best-out-of-lodge/
  56. https://www.nrl.com/news/2015/04/26/junior-kangaroos-named-to-face-junior-kiwis/
  57. https://www.espn.com/nrl/story/_/id/25379820/lodge-named-emerging-origin-blues
  58. https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/lodge-named-in-emerging-origin-blues/r2ltf597m
  59. https://www.nswrl.com.au/news/2013/04/15/team-announcement--nsw-under-20/
  60. https://www.nrl.com/draw/state-of-origin-u20s/2014/round-1/nsw-u20s-vs-qld-u20s/
  61. https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/special-features/in-depth/teacher-charlene-saliba-details-horrific-life-of-violence-with-disgraced-nrl-brisbane-broncos-star-matthew-lodge/news-story/db78699582fd036d80de532330fd0eb6
  62. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/aug/21/wests-tigers-player-charged-with-stalking-intimidation-and-assault
  63. https://www.nine.com.au/sport/nrl/lodge-s-ex-alleges-cycle-of-domestic-abuse-20180318-p5h95m.html
  64. https://www.nrl.com/news/2018/03/19/nrl-ceo-todd-greenberg-we-knew-all-about-matt-lodges-past-behaviour/
  65. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-19/nrls-decision-to-allow-lodge-back-looking-worse-by-the-week/9561190
  66. https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/nrl-faces-more-domestic-violence-drama/1hj5xt030
  67. https://foxsports.com.au/nrl/matt-lodges-former-partner-gives-horrific-account-of-abuse-during-their-relationship/news-story/20e7db00a78e34fc8c20cea50932cb8a
  68. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-19/matt-lodge-behaviour-concerns-broncos-sponsors/9562056
  69. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/oct/19/wests-tigers-matthew-lodge-charged-us-alleged-stalking-assault
  70. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-34600449
  71. https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/lodge-faces-25-year-new-york-jail-sentence/19nbt8qyn
  72. https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/australian-rugby-player-arrested-new-york-city-stalking-women/1160842/
  73. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/sacked-wests-tiger-matt-lodge-back-in-australia-after-new-york-arrest-20160123-gmciug.html
  74. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4049620/NRL-s-Matthew-Lodge-escapes-jail-New-York-attack-despite-minute-plea-victims.html
  75. http://www.wigdorlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/NRL-player-Matt-Lodge-accused-of-having-no-remorse-23Feb2016.pdf
  76. https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2015/dec/22/australian-rugby-player-matthew-lodge-compensation-claim-alleged-us-rampage
  77. https://www.9news.com.au/world/matt-lodge-must-pay-1-2-mln-us-judge/bdd3afd0-c428-433d-afa0-d3f4a792032d
  78. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/lodge-settles-with-new-york-victims-takes-out-loan-to-pay-damages-20180620-p4zmnr.html
  79. https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/last-chance-nrl-saloon-for-broncos-lodge/y64xgqzck
  80. https://www.espn.com/nrl/story/_/id/22505597
  81. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/mar/06/the-case-of-matthew-lodge-when-a-line-in-the-sand-must-be-drawn
  82. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-02/matthew-lodge-attack-victims-speak-out/9504796
  83. https://www.abc.net.au/triplej/programs/hack/why-nrl-fans-are-angry-at-matthew-lodges-return/9567092
  84. https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/need-to-pay-the-bills-matt-lodge-inks-parttime-contract-after-rejecting-300k-lifeline/news-story/20f42b0cbfa1148d4356174030babbf5
  85. https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-2024-matt-lodge-new-york-arrest-charges-home-invasion-opens-up-bye-round-podcast-usa-broncos-sea-eagles-news-videos/news-story/052d5a817a9b95f3bcec52fd4e06bf3f
  86. https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/rugby-league-enforcer-matt-lodge-calls-out-paul-gallen-after-a-dominant-knockout-in-boxing-debut/news-story/c30ac6f5fcedcc9891789c289d205dd2
  87. https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/bouts/937371-warehouse-rumble-3-matt-lodge-vs-alexander-ale
  88. https://www.sportingnews.com/au/rugby-league/news/matt-lodge-boxing-debut-2024-manly-sea-eagles/401b4a26a6c0b97cc2811dc0
  89. https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/bouts/968612-pizzi-vs-flood-matt-lodge-vs-jonasa-jonasa-dulo-kavika
  90. https://boxrec.com/en/box-pro/1284249
  91. https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/469444-matt-lodge
  92. https://www.codesports.com.au/boxing/nrl-star-matt-lodge-boxes-with-journalist-tyson-jackson-ahead-of-first-professional-fight/news-story/14987699a44b53d97ac2abe439dffe63
  93. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCshOMdSc6h/
  94. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/if-we-d-been-told-the-full-lodge-story-we-d-be-talking-footy-instead-20180306-p4z34w.html
  95. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nrl/article-14796247/Matt-Lodge-Manly-Sea-Eagles-NRL-shocked-parents-junior-footy-New-York-rampage-2015.html
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