Matt Nean wins footy contract after 20-year ban overturned
Matt Nean, 35, signed with Dungowan Cowboys for 2027 after his disputed 20-year suspension was cancelled.
Matt Nean, an Indigenous bush footy player, served more than nine years of a 20-year ban after an incident at the 2016 Group 4 grand final. Matt Nean had appealed an initial 18-week suspension and was given the longer ban instead.
Following a campaign by nine.com.au, the NSW Rugby League and Group 4 dropped the ban midway through last year. Nean played four games for Dungowan Cowboys at the end of last season and impressed enough to win a 2027 contract.
Now 35, he told nine.com.au his greatest joy was the chance to play alongside his 17-year-old son Kobhan. He works for the Aboriginal Land Council and will play part-time, but said the opportunity meant everything.
- 9+
- Years of ban served
- 18 weeks
- Original suspension length
- 20 years
- Total ban imposed
- 35
- Current age
Why it mattersA man wrongfully banned gets his life back and a chance to share his passion with his son.
AustraliaA NSW Indigenous bush footy community welcomes back one of its own after a decade away, reuniting a family through sport.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
