In an emotional and candid interview, Jack Bird, the versatile NRL player who is set to join the Wests Tigers in 2025, has opened up about his time with St. George Illawarra Dragons, expressing regret over his decision to leave the club. As the talented forward prepares for the next chapter of his career, Bird shared his reflections on the highs and lows of his journey, revealing a deep connection with the Dragons and their devoted fanbase.
“I regret ever leaving St George,” Bird admitted, his voice tinged with emotion. Bird, who won the 2016 NRL Grand Final with the Cronulla Sharks, has seen it all—triumphs, injuries, and struggles. However, his decision to leave St. George Illawarra in 2017 has been one that weighs heavily on him to this day.
“I left because of the opportunity and the financial security that Brisbane offered,” Bird explained, referring to his lucrative four-year deal with the Brisbane Broncos, worth $4 million. At the time, the move seemed like a promising step for his career, but it soon became clear that the grass wasn’t greener on the other side. Bird was plagued by injuries during his time with the Broncos, including a significant shoulder injury that required surgery, which set him back and kept him sidelined for long periods.
“Looking back, I didn’t realize how much leaving St George would affect me emotionally. I left for the wrong reasons, and I felt that loss every day,” he revealed. After his struggles at Brisbane, including further setbacks with a knee injury and an ACL tear in 2020, Bird’s career had hit a low point.
But through it all, Bird has never forgotten the support of the St. George fans. “The fans were embracing even when I messed things up,” Bird said with gratitude. “They stuck by me through thick and thin, and that’s something I’ll never forget.” His connection with the Dragons supporters remained unshaken, even during the difficult times. “Even when the results weren’t there, and I was dealing with my own battles, the fans never turned their backs on me.”
However, Bird did not shy away from addressing the criticism he faced during his time at the club. In a moment that drew attention earlier in 2023, Bird responded to fan frustrations over the team’s poor form, stating, “They’ve got a lot to say about people on the field. I don’t think they’ve ever played a game of footy, they don’t know much about the game.” These remarks sparked backlash from fans, leading Bird to issue an apology the following day, acknowledging the importance of fan support and admitting that his words were ill-chosen. “Fans are good for the game, and stuff like that, but it comes to a point where you can’t cop so much criticism over the players and coaching staff,” he said during the controversial interview. The tension with fans didn’t linger, though, as Bird recognized the immense value of the fan base and their loyalty to the club.
Bird returned to his junior club, St. George Illawarra, in 2021, hoping to reignite the passion and success he had once felt there. While the team missed out on the finals during his tenure, finishing 11th in 2021 and 10th in 2022, Bird continued to give his all for the club. Despite his efforts, he found himself drawn to a new challenge and eventually signed a two-year deal with Wests Tigers, starting in 2025. “I’m excited for what lies ahead with the Tigers, but leaving the Dragons for a second time has been tough.”
Reflecting on his departure, Bird said, “St George gave me everything when I was younger. When I left, I felt like I had unfinished business, and in some ways, I still do. That’s why it’s hard for me to say goodbye again.”
As he now looks forward to joining the Wests Tigers, Bird remains thankful for the bond he shares with the Dragons and their fans. “I’ll always be grateful to St George and their supporters. They made me feel like I was part of a family, even when things weren’t going right. I’ll carry that with me forever.”
Jack Bird’s journey has been a rollercoaster of success, injury, and personal growth, but one thing remains constant—his love for the Dragons and the regret of ever leaving. Fans will be watching closely as Bird embarks on the next phase of his career, knowing that a piece of his heart will always remain with St George Illawarra.
