Josh Addo-Carr says he holds no ill will towards Canterbury despite his sacking as he takes up a labouring job while awaiting another NRL opportunity.
Addo-Carr’s three-year stint came to an end when the Bulldogs ripped up his contract after he returned a positive result to cocaine at a roadside police drugs test in September. The club made the decision after Addo-Carr fronted the Bulldogs board on Thursday.
The premiership-winning winger has used his time in rugby league purgatory labouring on a Sydney job site, as well as boxing with renowned trainer Johnny Lewis and former professional Garth Wood to keep fit.
Addo-Carr didn’t want to go into the specifics of the incident that ended his time at Belmore – “I know the truth and that will come out” – but said he held no grudges against the Bulldogs.
“Very disappointed, you don’t want to go out like that,” Addo-Carr told this masthead.
“The club is in good hands with Cam, Gus and Critter [coach Cameron Ciraldo, general manager of football Phil Gould and captain Stephen Crichton], three wonderful leaders leading the club in the right direction.
“I’m proud to say I’ve played a little part in the club, I’m proud to be a Bulldog. I wish the Bulldogs nothing but absolute success, including the fans as well.
“I’ve been there through the hard times and the good times. I wish them all the best, they are a wonderful club.”
Addo-Carr left premiership heavyweights Melbourne three years ago to join a Bulldogs side that had just earned the wooden spoon.
“I could have easily come to a team that was successful and in a really good place,” he said.
“I dared to dream and play my part in changing the culture, that was the whole plan in going to the Bulldogs.
Josh Addo-Carr is ready for a fresh start.Credit: Getty
“I knew they were a big club and wanted to make them a powerhouse again. Looking back at it now, I dared to dream. I don’t think any other player would have done that.
“I’m so happy to see where the Bulldogs are now and the fans are enjoying [success]. That’s life, I just need to move on now and that’s what I plan on doing.”
Several clubs have already expressed interest in signing Addo-Carr and he admitted it would feel strange coming up against his former club.
“I’ve got good mates still at the club,” he said. “It will be weird, it is what it is.”
Josh Addo-Carr at the meeting that would seal his fate at the Bulldogs.Credit: Janie Barrett
Addo-Carr described working on a job site as a “reality check” after earning almost $10,000 a week as a footballer.
“I’m always providing for the family,” he said.
“There are fellas out there in the same position that get up every day that have to work. They may not love it, but they do it to provide for their family. That’s what I’ve always done, always worked hard.
“The last time [I was on the tools] was when I was at the Storm in their work program. You can’t forget what other people do, and you need to be grateful for what I’ve got. Working hard has worked for me and that’s where I’ve got to today. I’ve got to keep chipping away.”
Asked about the biggest learning after the incident that cost him his contract, Addo-Carr said: “It was definitely dark days. But for anyone going through the same thing, there is light at the end of the tunnel. They can use me as an example.
“You put yourself around the right people, get the right support and you will get through it. That’s what I’ve done, with close family and friends. If you go through dark times, there’s light at the end of the tunnel, no matter what.
“I’ve been through the highest of highs, and now the lowest of lows.”
The 29-year-old said the incident was a timely reminder of who his friends are.
“You learn who is around during the tough times, you really do,” he said. “I’ll keep being ‘The Foxx’, keep showing love to everyone, no matter what. Keep being a humble guy.
“I’m training now, but can’t wait to get stuck in, wherever I go. I know I’ll bring that winning mentality I’ve learnt at the Bulldogs and Melbourne Storm.
“I’m just looking forward to the journey, I love a challenge.”
Addo-Carr was adamant he will be an asset to any prospective employer.
“The hunger is always there, I live and breathe football,” he said.
“My son plays football, the whole family plays football, I’ve been playing since I was three years of age.
“I’m only 29, I love playing football. My body is in a good position right now.
“I’m loving life, I just need to find another club. I know I will, I’ll keep chipping away. I won’t forget to be grateful for what I have.”
