Family donates Paul Green's brain to science

Paul Green's family has donated the premiership-winning coach's brain to the Australian Sports Brain Bank.Just a week after the tragic death of the former NRL player and coach, the Green family's search for answers over his passing has led to the decision to gain a wider perspective around the concussion-related condition chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).On the Australian Sports Brain Bank website, the Green family left a message with a goal of raising up to $150,000 for research: "In memory of our beloved Paul, we ask that you support the pioneering work of the Australian Sports Brain Bank."Paul was known for always looking out for others. We are proud that part of his legacy will be looking out for the brain health of all others involved in the game that he loved."Amanda, Emerson and Jed."

Simple message to heal NRL's shattered hearts

In a week of unprecedented tragedy in rugby league, a tale has emerged to warm the hearts of shell-shocked rugby league fans.Paul Green's death stunned the league world - and has brought to the forefront of attention the insidious black dog.No player - or young to middle aged person - is immune to the illness, even rugby league's latest rock star, Nicho Hynes.Hynes is rugby league's coolest cat in 2022 - movie star looks, amazing talent and the class to come up with the big plays.But it wasn't always like that for the superstar 26-year-old. While an unknown youngster trying to make a name for himself in the big league just four years ago, Hynes suffered lack of self confidence and bouts of self doubt while also working as a teacher's aide at a Mackay primary school in north Queensland."It's hard to believe now, but Nicho did have a few mental health issues early on," said Storm boss Frank Ponissi, who was instrumental in bringing the utility back to Melbourne.Enter Aaron Booth, a carefree, happy-go-lucky youngster the same again as Hynes, also playing in Mackay who became Hynes' flatmate."Aaron was great for him and the two have a special bond," Ponissi said.