User:JackAndrewIreland1997

Jack Ireland
Personal information
Full name	Jack Andrew Ireland
Born	22 June 1986 (age 37); Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Height	180 cm (5 ft 11 in)
Weight	73 kg (11 st 7 lb)
Playing information
Position	Fullback, Five-eighth, Halfback
Club
Representative
	As of 11 November 2019

Jack Ireland AM (born June 22, 1986), is a former Australian professional rugby league footballer who played for the Brisbane Broncos, Newcastle Knights, Manly Sea Eagles and the Melbourne Storm of the National Rugby League. A former Australian international and Queensland State representative, Ireland is frequently hailed as one of the greatest players of all time. Ireland won a record five Grand Finals (including three Clive Churchill Medals), the Dally M Medal five times, two World Cups with Australia, and the Golden Boot Award for the world's best player on four occasions.

Ireland was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2019 Queen's Birthday Honours for his service to rugby league.

Early years[edit]

Ireland was born in Brisbane, Queensland. Ireland attended Bardon State School in Brisbane and was spotted by the Brisbane Broncos at the age of 15 whilst playing for a local Brisbane Country Team. Ireland excelled through the academy set-up playing at fullback and was called up to the first team training sessions by the age of 17.

Professional playing career[edit]

2004[edit]

In 2004, an injury to Michael De Vere in the round of 15 gave Ireland the chance to play his first ever first grade game coming 2 days after his 18th birthday, against the Penrith Panthers. Ireland started from the bench and a move to switch Darren Lockyer to the five-eighth role on 68 minutes gave the opportunity for Ireland to play his preferred role at fullback. With his first touch, through good inter-play on the left hand side, Ireland used his blistering pace to its full extent, racing clear of the rest of the field and finding Lockyer on the inside to send the Broncos into the lead for the first time in the game. The game ended 20-16 in favour of the Broncos.

Ireland played an additional 10 games, scoring four times which helped secure a place in the end of season play-offs for the Broncos. Ireland played a part in opening Semis of the play-offs with a mature performance as the Broncos cruised to a comfortable 26-10 victory over the Parramatta Eels. After his explosive start to his NRL career, Ireland was well and truly a part of an in-form Broncos side that continued their run of good form with a victory over Sydney to reach yet another NRL Grand Final for the Queensland club.

A week before the Grand Final at the annual NRL Awards, Ireland was named Rookie of the Year and appeared at Fullback in the NRL Team of the Year capping off a truly remarkable first year. Ireland made the bench in the Grand Final and almost scored a miraculous try but was hauled down 10 meters short of the line as the Broncos were narrowly defeated by the Canterbury Bulldogs 16-13.

Ireland was a shock selection in the 24-man Australia squad for 2004 Tri-Nations series. Although he wasn’t picked for the first 6 games in which Australia finished top of the group, Ireland was selected as a substitute for the final itself, which Australia comfortable won 44-4 against Great Britain with Ireland scoring the seventh and final try for the Kangaroos. Ireland was later named the International Newcomer of the Year at the annual Rugby League International Federation awards evening.

2005[edit]

After salary cap issues at the Broncos, Ireland and other emerging talents were forced to find new clubs. In January 2005, Ireland signed a two-year deal with the option for a third with the Newcastle Knights. Although the Knights finished a lowly 11th on the ladder, Ireland went on to play 19 times in his first season, scoring nine tries in the process.

2006[edit]

Prior to the start of the 2006 NRL season, Ireland was in a straight shootout for the N0 6 jersey with fellow youngster Jarrod Mullen. The 20-year-old played in all but five games scoring 15 tries and kicking 77 goals to finish the season with a personal tally of 214 points. Ireland, along with veteran scrum-half Andrew Johns and fullback Kurt Gidley, lead the Knights to a minor premiership after finishing top of the ladder after the weekly rounds.

At the end of season awards, Jack won his first Dally M Award, six votes clear of second placed Darren Lockyer. The Knights cruised their way into the Grand Final where they overcame the Melbourne Storm 15-8 with Ireland scoring a brilliant Grand Final try. From dummy-half, Danny Buderus ran then passed back inside to Andrew Johns who gave a short ball on to Matt Gidley who did likewise for Clint Newton. Before being tackled, Newton tossed the ball blindly back over his head and it was picked up by Kurt Gidley who spun out of a tackle then passed it to Jarrod Mullen. Without losing momentum, Mullen passed the ball on to a flying Jack Ireland who raced to the corner for the try.

Due to his strong club form, Ireland was selected to feature in game three of the 2006 State of Origin series, helping Queensland back to winning ways by kicking the winning conversation in a 16-12 win. Ireland featured at fullback in his second Tri-Nations final as Australia were back to winning ways with a 16-12 golden point victory over New Zealand.

2007[edit]

Before the start of the 2007 NRL season, the Knights, led by Ireland and half back partner Kurt Gidley, won the 2007 World Club Challenge against St Helens. After the heights of 2006, this season proved to be a too much for the Knights, who struggled with injuries throughout. Ireland featured in 17 games scoring five tries as the Knights failed to replicate their premiership winning season, finishing the season in tenth – missing out on the end of season play-offs.

Ireland did play a commanding role in all three State of Origin tests, as the 21-year-old finished the series as top points scorer which saw Queensland win the series 2-1.

At the end of the regular season, Ireland expressed an interest in playing in the English Super League after a tip from former teammate Andrew Johns who had done so previously in 2005. Like Johns, Ireland penned a new three-year deal at the Knights who then granted him permission to join Super League outfit Bradford Bulls until the end of the 2007 Super League season. Ireland arrived 4 days before the Bulls’ Challenge Cup Semi-Final clash with the Leeds Rhinos, who had beaten Bradford the week before 48-4, but showed no sign of fatigue as his try scoring masterclass led Bradford to a 38-30 win over their bitter rivals. Ireland featured in the final two games of the season as Bradford finished the regular season in third place. Before the play-offs, Ireland helped Bradford to a 30-14 victory of St Helens in the 2007 Challenge Cup Final, the first at the new Wembley Stadium, scoring a try and kicking five goals on his way to winning the Lance Todd Trophy for man of the match.

Ireland led Bradford to the Super League Grand Final, after victories over Wigan Warriors, Hull FC and St Helens in the play-offs, where they met rivals Leeds Rhinos. Trailing 18-12 with four minutes remaining, Ireland scored a try in the corner and landed the touchline conversion. On the next set, Ireland kicked a 40-metre field goal giving Bradford the victory in a tense finale. Ireland was also named the Harry Sunderland man of the match for his efforts. Ireland returned home to Australia in November 2007 to start pre-season at the Knights.

2008[edit]

Back from his stint in England, Ireland led the charge as Newcastle bounced back from a disappointing 2007 season to end the season in fourth place, with Ireland contributing 12 tries and 73 goals in another fine year for the young halfback.

Ireland topped off the year by winning his second Dally M award and making his third appearance in the NRL Team of the Year. In the 2008 Grand Final against the Sydney Roosters, Ireland gave a man of the match display despite the Knights losing 23-16. The moment of the match came in the 49th minute when Roosters fullback Anthony Minichiello took an Ireland bomb and raced the length of the field. Ireland was later rumoured to have offered Minichiello the Clive Churchill Medal, to which he refused to accept it.

Ireland played a starring role for Queensland as his crucial try assist led the Maroons to yet another 2-1 series victory over New South Wales. In August 2008, Ireland was named in the preliminary 46-man Kangaroos squad for the 2008 World Cup, and in October 2008 he was selected in the final 24-man Australia squad. He was considered one of the 2008 World Cup 'Players to Watch' by NRL Live. Ireland scored five tries and was awarded the World Cup Golden Boot in the losing effort against the Kiwis at the World Cup final, where Ireland limped from the field due to an ankle injury sustained during the first half.

2009[edit]

Ireland started the year in good form, scoring eight tries in as many matches as the Knights looked for the first minor premiership since 2006. After another injury-free season for both himself and the Knights in general, Ireland led from the front as the Knights claimed the minor premiership on the final day of the regular season with Ireland personally scoring 17 tries and kicking 71 goals.

Ireland picked up the Provan-Summons Medal and the Rugby League Association Players’ Champion award at the end of season awards ceremony. Newcastle once again made it to the Grand Final, facing last years’ winners the Sydney Roosters, who were this time resoundingly beaten 32-8, with Ireland finishing the match with a tally of 16 points and picking up the Clive Churchill Medal for the second consecutive season.

Ireland once again played in all three State of Origin matches as Queensland won four series in a row. During the 2009 Four Nations tournament, in which Ireland played a starring role in Australia’s victory, he won the man of the match award in the Final, scoring a try and kicking seven goals. At the end of year International awards dinner, Ireland was titled Rugby League’s best player by winning the Rugby League Golden Boot and International Player of the Year Award. He also made the RLIF Team of the Year for the second consecutive year.

2010[edit]

Ireland kicked off the 2010 year with victory in the World Club Challenge over Super League champions Leeds Rhinos, scoring 14 of the 18 points in the Knights’ 18-10 victory. Newcastle again started the season brightly, winning 11 of the first 14 matches making them firm favourites to become the first team to win back-to-back premierships in NRL history. Ireland was in terrific form as the 24-year-old finished the season with 218 points – scoring 18 tries and kicking 73 goals as the Knights finished second on the ladder.

Ireland, playing his 130th and last NRL match for the Knights, put in a man of the match display in the victory over the Brisbane Broncos in the play-off Semi Finals. Ireland was ruled out of the Preliminary Final clash with St George Illawarra Dragons after injuring his ankle in the final play of the game against the Broncos, seeing his Knights’ teammates slump to a 40-6 defeat over the eventual premiers. Ireland made his fourth appearance in the NRL Team of the Year.

At Representative level, Ireland finished the 2010 State of Origin series win with 40 points – the highest total by any player in series history. Ireland won the Representative player of the Year for his stellar series performance. During the end of season 2010 Four Nations tournament, Ireland scored 38 points. He was however, unable to secure the trophy for Australia, with New Zealand coming out victors in their third consecutive final of a major tournament against the Kangaroos. Despite the loss, Ireland became the first player to win the prestigious Rugby League Golden Boot award two years running.

2011[edit]

There was much speculation at the start of the 2011 year as to where Ireland would end up with his contract at the Knights coming to an end. Many NRL clubs were interested in signing the talented 24-year-old halfback, and on 13th January 2011, Ireland signed a lucrative two-year deal at the Sydney-based club the Manly Sea Eagles estimated to be worth around $1.3 million.

Before the start of the season, Ireland played in the annual All Stars match which saw the best Indigenous players go head-to-head with the best NRL players. Ireland played a starring role as the NRL All Stars won 28-12, with Ireland picking up the Preston Campbell Medal for his display. Ireland would partner rookie halfback Daly Cherry-Evans as the Sea Eagles aimed for their first title since 2008.

With Trent Hodkinson moving to play for the Canterbury Bulldogs, Ireland made his debut for Manly in Round 1 of the 2011 NRL season against the Melbourne Storm at halfback in the Sea Eagles 18-6 loss at AAMI Park. Ireland had another stand out season as he topped the try scoring charts and points charts in his first season at the club. Ireland was presented with the 2011 Dally M award after his stellar campaign, making him the first player to ever win the award three times. He also became the first player to win the Dally M and Provan-Summons Medal in the same year. Ireland also kicked three goals in Manly's victory over the New Zealand Warriors in the 2011 NRL Grand Final. Daly Cherry-Evans’ try just before the game's half time was set up by an audacious grubber kick by Ireland, who went on to claim the Clive Churchill Medal. Manly went on to defeat the Warriors 24-10 to win their 8th premiership. Ireland finished his excellent debut year for Manly in the 2011 NRL season with him playing in all 27 matches, scoring 20 tries, kicking 84 goals.

The 2011 State of Origin series saw Ireland finish with three tries and eight goals in Queensland sixth consecutive series win. Ireland continued to shine on the international stage, starring in Darren Lockyer's final Test on home soil with a 40-6 win over New Zealand at Hunter Stadium. Ireland also played in the upcoming Four Nations. Ireland scored in each of his appearances in the 2011 Four-Nations, including kicking five goals in the 30–8 final win over England at Elland Road. He was named by the Rugby League International Federation in its annual awards as the world's best halfback for 2011.

2012[edit]

In the 2012 All Star match, Ireland scored a try and kicked six goals as the NRL beat the Indigenous All Stars 36-28, with Ireland winning back to back Preston Campbell Medals. Ireland began his second year at Manly with a dramatic 29-26 victory over Super League champions the Leeds Rhinos in the 2012 World Club Challenge. From 26-10 down, Manly scored 19 unanswered points to claim the trophy. Ireland played in 21 matches during the 2012 season, scoring nine tries and kicking 55 goals as Manly were eliminated by the Canterbury Bulldogs in the Play-Offs.

After another State of Origin win for Queensland, their seventh in a row, Ireland won his second Wally Lewis Medal for his efforts in Queensland’s victory. Ireland capped off the year with his record-breaking third Rugby League Golden Boot, making him the most successful Rugby League Player of the modern era at only 26 years of age.

2013[edit]

Ireland began the 2013 year by signing a new three-year, $2.5 million deal with the Sea Eagles making him one of the top-paid players in the NRL. Ireland featured off the bench as the NRL All Stars lost 32-6 to the Indigenous All Stars.

After a strong finish to the campaign, Manly ended the year in fourth place, with Ireland scoring 12 tries and kicking 88 goals. Ireland went on to claim his fourth Dally M award, an astonishing achievement. The Sea Eagles reached the 2013 Grand Final, where they met the Sydney Roosters, the favourites to win the trophy that year. After a blistering start, where the Sea Eagles led 18-8, Ireland was injured midway through the second half before a strong end to the game saw the Roosters win 26-18.

In the post-season, Ireland played for Australia in their successful 2013 Rugby League World Cup campaign, scoring five tries, including a try in the final against New Zealand at Old Trafford. Ireland won the RLIF International Halfback of the Year and was also shortlisted alongside Sonny Bill Williams and Greg Inglis for the RLIF International Player of the Year.

2014[edit]

In 2014, Ireland took a massive hit on the footy fields. He continued playing strongly at club level in the halfback position and was selected for both the 2014 Anzac Test and the 2014 State of Origin series. Manly exited the Play-Offs early, with Ireland finishing the year having played 22 matches, scoring ten tries and kicking 68 goals for the Sea Eagles.

Ireland played in the post season Four Nations tournament as the Kangaroos, without regular halfback Johnathan Thurston, lost in the Final to bitter rivals New Zealand. At the RLIF awards evening, Ireland fended off strong competition from Sam Burgess and Cameron Smith to claim his third International Player of the Year Award.

2015[edit]

Ireland had a frustrating 2015 NRL season, plagued by minor injuries. He still managed to play in 19 matches, scoring six tries and kicking 40 goals. He was awarded the Provan-Summons Medal at the end of the season.

Ireland’s injury kept him out of the 2015 Anzac Test loss to New Zealand. Ireland confirmed at the end of the season that he would be leaving the Manly Sea Eagles, to take up a contract elsewhere. Both NRL and Super League teams showed interest.

2016[edit]

During the off season, Ireland had received offers from many clubs, with the Cronulla Sharks or Super League club Wigan Warriors looking to be the likely destination. On the 10th December 2015, the 29-year-old signed a three-year deal worth $3.3 million with the Melbourne Storm.

Ireland later stated that after seeing out his contract with the Storm, he would return to Queensland to play for the Brisbane Broncos. Ireland enjoyed a back to form first year with the Storm. Free from goal kicking duties, with Cameron Smith the regular goal kicker, Ireland played a major part in the Storms’ minor premiership winning season. He finished the season having played 26 matches, scoring 14 tries and kicking 11 goals. Ireland scored his 150th NRL try in the round 21 win over the North Queensland Cowboys. Ireland played starring roles in the Play-Off wins over the Canberra Raiders and the North Queensland Cowboys. Although Ireland gave another top performance, it wasn't enough for him to claim a fourth grand final victory as they narrowly lost out to the Cronulla Sharks 14-12. This would be Ireland’s seventh Grand Final appearance – a record equalling amount.

In October 2016, Ireland was named in the 24-man Australia squad for the upcoming Four Nations tournament. Ireland was sent home early from the Four Nations in England after sustaining an ankle injury in the win over New Zealand.

2017[edit]

In 2017, Ireland once again played a huge role in Melbourne Storm's success. The mercurial halfback continued to play strongly at club level in the halfback position and played in all three State of Origin games as Queensland won their 11th title in 12 years.

Melbourne once again won the minor premiership, with Ireland finishing the year having played 21 matches, scoring nine tries and kicking 6 goals for the Storm. Ireland played his 300th game in the round 26 win over the Canberra Raiders, joining the esteemed 300 Club. Ireland played a crucial role alongside Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk and Cameron Smith as Melbourne beat the Parramatta Eels and the Brisbane Broncos to secure back-to-back Grand Finals. Ireland was not to be denied his unprecedented fourth Grand Final winners ring as the Storm defeated the Cowboys 34-6 in Sydney. After the match, Ireland was seen embracing Cowboys captain Johnathan Thurston - the two having faced off in the 2004 Grand Final. Ireland was also named Dally M Five-Eighth of the Year, making his one of the most successful halfbacks in Dally M history.

Picked in Mal Meninga's 24-man squad for the 2017 World Cup, Ireland appeared in his third World Cup for the green and golds. Australia, without a host of players including Johnathan Thurston, Darius Boyd, Greg Inglis and Matthew Scott went on to claim World Cup glory, beating England 6-0 in the final in Brisbane after a stellar campaign. Ireland played a starring role, playing in all six games, scoring four tries and kicking 25 goals on his way to winning his second World Cup title.

2018[edit]

Without the talisman Cooper Cronk to lead the line for Melbourne Storm in 2018, more responsibility was placed on the shoulders of Ireland and new halfback partner Cameron Munster. The pair successfully guided the Storm to second in the premiership, finishing level on points with eventual winners the Sydney Roosters.

On 28 May, Ireland was selected to play in Queensland's 2018 State of Origin squad. On 2 July, Cherry-Evans was named to replace Ireland in game 3 of the 2018 State of Origin series due to an injury suffered whilst training. Ireland played for Queensland in an 18-14 defeat to New South Wales in Game 2.

Buoyed by a strong finish to the regular season, which saw Ireland score 7 tries in the final 10 games, the former Golden Boot winner kicked the winning field goal in the 29-28 win over South Sydney Rabbitohs in the Play-Offs. Ireland scored one and laid on two for fullback Billy Slater in the 22-6 win over the Cronulla Sharks to set up a Grand Final against the Roosters. Ireland played the entire 80 minutes in the 21-6 defeat, his fifth Grand Final defeat. At the End of the 2018 season Ireland played 24 games, scoring 13 tries and kicking 12 goals.

He was a stand-out performer in 2018 and was selected for both of the test matches against New Zealand and Tonga, where Ireland scored a try in the 34-16 win at Mt Smart Stadium, his last game wearing the green and gold.

2019[edit]

Ireland signed a two-year contract extension with the Storm starting in 2019 after the Brisbane Broncos opted not to pursue the halfback. Ireland, alongside veteran Cameron Smith, began the 2019 season as co-captains.

The 32-year-old missed the opening round of the season through selection and made his return to the team in round 2 against the Canberra Raiders, scoring a try in a 22-10 victory. On 2nd August, Ireland overtook Steve Menzies on the all-time NRL try-scoring charts, crossing twice in a 40-4 win over the Brisbane Broncos, taking his total to 182 tries. In Round 24, Ireland scored one try, assisted three others and kicked two goals as the Storm defeated his former club the Manly Sea Eagles 36-6.

Ireland made a total of 21 appearances for the Storm in the 2019 NRL season as the club claimed the minor premiership and qualified for the finals.

Ireland played and scored a try in all three finals matches as the Storm reached the Preliminary Final, losing to the Sydney Roosters, ending Ireland's run of three consecutive grand finals.

During the Dally M awards, Ireland was awarded the Dally M halfback of the year, joining teammates Cameron Munster, Cameron Smith and Brandom Smith in the NRL Team of the Year.

2020[edit]

At the start of the 2020 season, Ireland announced it would be his last. The season was suspended indefinitely on 23 March 2020 due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic; however, on 28 April 2020, the NRL announced it would recommence on 28 May as a 20-round competition with a revised draw. During the season, Ireland scored 7 tries and scored a total of 58 points.

In Round 19, Ireland overtook Billy Slater on the all-time NRL try-scoring charts, crossing twice in a 50-22 win over the Wests Tigers. Ireland finished his professional career having scored 193 tries. He also finished second on the chart for most appearances, behind teammate Cameron Smith.

During the 2020 State of Origin series, his last as a professional player, Ireland played a starring role as Queensland claimed a shock 2-1 series win over New South Wales. Playing alongside former teammate Daly Cherry-Evans, Ireland found his best form, scoring two tries and kicking eight goals on his way to winning the Wally Lewis medal for the fourth time. Ireland finished his career tied for most tries in State of Origin career with 18 alongside Greg Inglis.

Ireland was named Dally M Player of the Year for a record fifth time - cementing his place as a true great of the game.

On 25 October 2020, Ireland played his final NRL game as he helped claimed yet another NRL premiership for the Storm, scoring a try in a 26–20 Grand Final victory over the Penrith Panthers. It was Ireland's fifth premiership crown.

Storm coach Craig Bellamy labelled the retiree one of the "greatest to ever play rugby league". “It’s hard to explain how influential Ireland is,” Bellamy said. “I’m a better coach because Ireland is here. We are a better club and a better team because Ireland is here. We asked him to come and do a job and he said, ‘I’m going to come, I’m going to get it done.’“I think he will go down as one of the greatest to ever play rugby league."

Post-playing career[edit]

Upon completing a journalism degree from the University of Sydney, Ireland joined the Nine Network's rugby league commentary team in 2021, acting as a sideline commentator and studio pundit.

Ireland also has a weekly column for Fox Sports, as well as being a guest lecturer at the University of Queensland, where he was given an honorary doctorate in 2022.

Awards and Honours[edit]

Individual[edit]

Please note: Due to the vast number of accolades won by Ireland, this is just a summary of his major award wins.

Dally M Player of the Year: 2006, 2008, 2011, 2013, 2020
Dally M Rookie of the Year: 2004
Dally M Halfback of the Year: 2008, 2010, 2019, 2020
Dally M Five-Eighth of the Year: 2006, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017
Dally M Representative Player of the Year: 2006, 2010, 2012, 2016
RLPA Player of the Year 2008, 2009
RLIF International Back of the Year: 2007
RLIF International Player of the Year: 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014
RLIF Halfback of the Year: 2008, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015
Rugby League World Golden Boot Award: 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013
Rugby League Week Player of the Year: 2006, 2013
Brisbane Broncos Player of the Year: 2004
Newcastle Knights Player of the Year: 2006, 2010
Newcastle Knights Players' player of the Year: 2008, 2010
Manly Sea Eagles Player of the Year: 2011, 2013
Manly Sea Eagles Players' player of the Year: 2014
Melbourne Storm Player of the Year: 2016, 2018, 2020
Melbourne Storm Players' player of the Year: 2018, 2020
Provan-Summons Medal:¹ 2009, 2010, 2015
Clive Churchill Medal:² 2008, 2009, 2011
Alan Clarkson Trophy:³ 2013
Graham Murray Medal:⁴ 2010, 2013
Wally Lewis Medal:⁵ 2007, 2012, 2016, 2020
Ron McAuliffe Medal:⁶ 2011, 2014, 2016, 2020
Preston Campbell Medal:⁷ 2011, 2012
Australian Representative Player of the Year: 2011, 2016
State of Origin Man of the Match: 6 Awards
Harry Sunderland Trophy: 2007
Lance Todd Trophy: 2007

1.^ The Provan-Summons Medal was awarded to the "people's choice" NRL player of the year that is fan voted.

2.^ The Clive Churchill Medal was awarded to the player judged man of the match in the NRL Grand Final.

3.^ The Alan Clarkson Trophy was awarded to the player judged most valuable finals player in the world.

4.^ The Graham Murray Medal was awarded to the player judged man of the match in the 2010 World Club Challenge.

5.^ The Wally Lewis Medal was awarded to the State of Origin player of the series.

6.^ The Ron McAuliffe Medal was awarded to the Queensland State of Origin player of the series.

7.^ The Preston Campbell Medal was awarded to the player judged man of the match in the Rugby League All Stars Match.

In 2010, Ireland was made a life member of the Newcastle Knights.

In 2011, Ireland was named as Big League Magazines Player of the Year, he was also named at Halfback in the magazines team of the year section.

In 2013, Ireland was presented the Channel 9 Wide World of Sports Golden Kenny trophy for Australian sports star of the year.

In 2019, Ireland was awarded the Don Award, Australian sport’s highest honour, becoming the only rugby player to receive the award.

Brisbane Broncos[edit]

2004 NRL Grand Final Runner-up

Newcastle Knights[edit]

Bradford Bulls[edit]

2007 Super League Grand Final Winner
2007 Challenge Cup Final Winner

Manly Sea Eagles[edit]

Melbourne Storm[edit]

Queensland[edit]

State of Origin: 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2020

Australia[edit]

NRL Grand Finals
Year	Team	Opposition	Venue	Score	Result
2004	Brisbane Broncos	Canterbury Bulldogs	Telstra Stadium	13 – 16	Runners-up
2006	Newcastle Knights	Melbourne Storm	Telstra Stadium	15 – 8	Win
2008	Newcastle Knights	Sydney Roosters	ANZ Stadium	16 – 23	Runners-up
2009	Newcastle Knights	Sydney Roosters	ANZ Stadium	32 – 8	Win
2011	Manly Sea Eagles	New Zealand Warriors	ANZ Stadium	24 – 12	Win
2013	Manly Sea Eagles	Sydney Roosters	ANZ Stadium	18 – 26	Runners-up
2016	Melbourne Storm	Cronulla Sharks	ANZ Stadium	12 – 14	Runners-up
2017	Melbourne Storm	North Queensland Cowboys	ANZ Stadium	34 – 6	Win
2018	Melbourne Storm	Sydney Roosters	ANZ Stadium	6 – 21	Runners-up
2020	Melbourne Storm	Penrith Panthers	ANZ Stadium	26 – 20	Win

Super League Grand Final
Year	Team	Opposition	Venue	Score	Result
2007	Bradford Bulls	Leeds Rhinos	Old Trafford	19-18	Win

Challenge Cup Final
Year	Team	Opposition	Venue	Score	Result
2007	Bradford Bulls	St Helens	Wembley Stadium	30-14	Win

World Club Challenge
Year	Team	Opposition	Venue	Score	Result
2007	Newcastle Knights	St Helens	Reebok Stadium	18-14	Win
2010	Newcastle Knights	Leeds Rhinos	Elland Road	18-10	Win
2012	Manly Sea Eagles	Leeds Rhinos	Headingley Stadium	29-26	Win
2018	Melbourne Storm	Leeds Rhinos	AAMI Park	38-4	Win

Rugby League World Cup Finals
Year	Team	Opposition	Venue	Score	Result
2008	Australia	New Zealand	Suncorp Stadium	20 – 34	Runners-up
2013	Australia	New Zealand	Old Trafford	34 – 2	Win
2017	Australia	England	Suncorp Stadium	6 – 0	Win

Rugby League Tri-Nations Finals
Year	Team	Opposition	Venue	Score	Result
2004	Australia	Great Britain	Elland Road	44 – 4	Win
2006	Australia	New Zealand	Aussie Stadium	16 – 12	Win

Rugby League Four Nations Finals
Year	Team	Opposition	Venue	Score	Result
2009	Australia	England	Elland Road	46 – 16	Win
2010	Australia	New Zealand	Suncorp Stadium	12 – 16	Runners-up
2011	Australia	England	Elland Road	30 – 8	Win
2014	Australia	New Zealand	Westpac Stadium	18 – 22	Runners-up

Statistics[edit]

NRL[edit]

†	Denotes seasons in which Ireland won a NRL Grand Final

Season	Team	Matches	T	G	GK %	F/G	Pts	W	L	D	W-L %
2004	Brisbane	11	4	5	98.4	1	27	9	2	0	81.81
2005	Newcastle	19	9	41	70.2	0	118	10	9	0	52.6
2006†	Newcastle	22	15	77	88.7	1	215	19	3	0	86.36
2007	Newcastle	17	5	44	81.0	0	108	11	6	0	64.7
2008	Newcastle	25	12	73	89.4	0	194	18	7	0	72
2009†	Newcastle	25	17	71	82.2	0	210	19	6	0	76
2010	Newcastle	22	18	73	85.0	1	219	15	7	0	68.2
2011†	Manly	27	20	84	86.9	0	248	21	6	0	77.8
2012	Manly	21	9	55	86.8	0	146	15	6	0	71.4
2013	Manly	26	12	88	84.3	1	225	16	9	1	61.5
2014	Manly	22	10	68	80.8	0	176	16	6	0	72.7
2015	Manly	19	6	40	88.9	0	104	10	9	0	52.6
2016	Melbourne	26	14	11	100	2	80	20	6	0	77
2017†	Melbourne	21	9	6	100	0	48	18	3	0	86
2018	Melbourne	24	13	12	100	2	78	19	5	0	79.1
2019	Melbourne	24	13	9	100	1	71	18	6	0	75
2020†	Melbourne	19	7	14	100	2	58	18	1	0	94.3
Career totals		370	193	771	85.5	11	2325	272	97	1	73.51

Super League[edit]

Season	Team	Matches	T	G	GK %	F/G	Pts	W	L	D	W-L %
2007	Bradford	6	9	26	96	1	89	6	0	0	100
Career totals		6	9	26	96	1	89	6	0	0	100

All Stars[edit]

†	Denotes years in which Ireland won an All Stars Match

Season	Team	Matches	T	G	GK %	Pts	W	L	W-L %
2011†	NRL All Stars	1	2	4	80	16	1	0	100
2012†	NRL All Stars	1	1	6	100	16	1	0	100
2013	NRL All Stars	1	0	1	100	2	0	1	0
2015	NRL All Stars	1	0	1	100	2	0	1	0
2016†	NRL All Stars	1	0	2	100	4	1	0	100
Career totals		5	3	14	93.3	40	3	2	60

State of Origin[edit]

†	Denotes seasons in which Ireland won a State of Origin Series

Season	Team	Matches	T	G	GK %	F/G	Pts	W	L	W-L %
2006†	Queensland	1	0	2	66.6	0	4	1	0	100
2007†	Queensland	3	2	4	80	0	16	2	1	66.7
2008†	Queensland	3	1	10	83.3	0	24	2	1	66.7
2009†	Queensland	3	2	6	83.3	0	20	2	1	66.7
2010†	Queensland	3	4	12	85.7	0	40	3	0	100
2011†	Queensland	3	2	8	80	0	24	2	1	66.7
2012†	Queensland	3	1	9	90	0	22	2	1	66.7
2013†	Queensland	3	1	1	100	0	6	2	1	66.7
2014	Queensland	3	2	0	—	0	8	1	2	33.3
2015†	Queensland	3	1	0	—	1	5	2	1	66.7
2016†	Queensland	3	0	0	—	0	0	2	1	66.7
2017†	Queensland	3	0	0	—	0	0	2	1	66.7
2018	Queensland	1	0	0	—	0	0	0	1	0
2020†	Queensland	3	2	8	80	0	24	2	1	66.7
Career totals		38	18	60	84	1	193	25	13	65.8

Australia[edit]

†	Denotes years in which Ireland won a World Cup

Season	Team	Matches	T	G	GK %	Pts	W	L	D	W-L %
2004	Australia	1	1	0	-	4	1	0	0	100
2006	Australia	3	2	0	-	8	3	0	0	100
2007	Australia	1	1	0	-	4	1	0	0	100
2008	Australia	5	5	19	86.4	58	4	1	0	80.0
2009	Australia	4	1	17	77.3	38	3	0	1	87.5
2010	Australia	5	2	15	71.4	38	4	1	0	80.0
2011	Australia	5	3	22	90.4	56	5	0	0	100
2012	Australia	2	1	0	81.4	4	2	0	0	100
2013†	Australia	6	5	0	-	20	6	0	0	100
2014	Australia	5	2	11	78.6	30	3	2	0	60
2016	Australia	3	1	7	70	18	3	0	0	100
2017†	Australia	6	4	25	76	66	6	0	0	100
2018	Australia	2	1	0	-	4	2	0	0	100
Career totals		48	29	116	78.9	348	43	4	1	89.6

Personal Life[edit]

Ireland was a finalist in Cleo magazine's Most Eligible Bachelors for 2007. During the filming of his authorized biography, Ireland admitted to often preferring solitude while working, attributing it to his independent way of living. Since 2010, when he was 24, Ireland has been in a relationship with Gemma Attercliffe, a lawyer from Melbourne. He has known Attercliffe since he was 18 years old. After keeping their relationship private for a year, Ireland first confirmed their romance in an interview in January 2011, before going public a month later during a festival in Melbourne. Ireland and Attercliffe married in November 2013. They had their first child, Harvey, in April 2018.

Ireland enjoys a close relationship with his immediate family members and friends, particularly his father, Shaun. His professional affairs are largely run as a personal business: his best friend, Aaron Cambell, has been his agent since he was 18, and his oldest friend, Matthew Watson, handles his contracts and legal forms. His other friends, Scott, Steven and Max, manage his promotional organisations and campaigns. Since leaving for New South Wales at the age of 18, Ireland has maintained close ties to his hometown of Brisbane, preserving the idea that he would end his professional career at the Broncos. He has kept ownership of his Queensland house, although it has long stood empty; he maintains a penthouse apartment in an exclusive residential building in the center of Sydney, as well as a state villa just outside the city as a holiday home. Every week before he plays in a major final, he will travel home to Queensland to have dinner with his family, spend the night with them, and return to his team the next day in time for practice.

In an article written by The Top Tens, labelled 'The Top 10 Rugby League Players of All Time', Ireland ranked in at Number 4 - behind only Andrew Johns, Darren Lockyer and Wally Lewis.

Ireland also listed in the top 10 rugby league players of all time by Fox Sports. Ireland was also considered for League Freak's Best Rugby League Team of all Time.

Hotly tipped to be listed as part of The Immortals (rugby league), Ireland faces stiff competition from the likes of Darren Lockyer, Mal Meninga and former Queensland teammates Johnathan Thurston and Cameron Smith.