As the South Sydney Rabbitohs reflect on their 2024 season, they are preparing to bid farewell to eight players, each of whom has contributed significantly to the club’s recent history. Among the departees is club stalwart Tom Burgess, whose departure marks the end of an era for the Rabbitohs. Burgess, a powerhouse prop, has been a fixture of the South Sydney squad for 12 seasons, becoming a fan favorite and leaving an indelible mark on the club’s legacy.
Burgess, 32, has confirmed his return to his native England, having signed a three-year contract with Super League side Huddersfield Giants, beginning in 2025. His journey with the Rabbitohs began in 2013, following his move from Bradford Bulls. Over the years, he has made 249 appearances for the club, scoring 22 tries and establishing himself as one of the most dependable forwards in the NRL. His presence on the field will undoubtedly be missed, but fans of both South Sydney and Huddersfield are excited about his next chapter.
Born in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, Burgess brought a unique mix of English grit and NRL toughness to South Sydney, where he carved out a distinguished career. His impact extended far beyond his statistics. Known for his leadership, work ethic, and imposing physicality, Burgess became a cornerstone of the Rabbitohs’ forward pack. His efforts helped propel the team to several finals appearances, with his finest moment being part of the squad that secured the 2014 NRL Premiership, breaking a 43-year drought for the club.
As Burgess departs for Huddersfield, South Sydney fans can take solace in the fact that he will continue his career in top-flight rugby, this time in the English Super League. Huddersfield Giants have secured an experienced and formidable player who will no doubt add strength to their forward pack.
Joining Burgess in leaving the club is another key figure in Damien Cook. The 33-year-old former Australia international hooker will return to St George Illawarra Dragons, the club where his NRL journey began. Cook, who has been with the Rabbitohs for nine seasons, has signed a two-year deal with the Dragons, bringing his exceptional service at South Sydney to a close.
Cook’s time at the Rabbitohs has been nothing short of remarkable. Known for his explosive speed out of dummy-half and his sharp game management, Cook made 183 appearances for the Rabbitohs. His efforts in both defense and attack made him one of the most dynamic hookers in the league, earning him representative honors with both New South Wales in State of Origin and Australia at the international level. His departure will leave a significant hole in the Rabbitohs’ spine, but his return to the Dragons is seen as a homecoming of sorts.
In addition to the departures of Burgess and Cook, South Sydney have confirmed six other players will be leaving the club. Michael Chee Kam, a former Samoa international who made 38 appearances for the Rabbitohs, is one of them. Chee Kam, who has been linked with a return to the Manly Sea Eagles, leaves with 132 total NRL games under his belt, offering experience and versatility to his next club.
Samoan outside-back Richie Kennar is also moving on after making 27 appearances for the Rabbitohs. At 29, Kennar has been linked with a possible move to the Super League, although his next destination remains unclear.
Dean Hawkins, the Rabbitohs’ New South Wales Cup-winning half-back, will depart after making 14 NRL appearances. Hawkins captained the Rabbitohs to the NSWRL Premiership and NRL State Championship in 2023, demonstrating his leadership qualities. Another departing half-back, Dion Teaupa, leaves after playing four NRL games for the Rabbitohs in 2024.
Outside-back Izaac Tu’itupou Thompson, who made 14 NRL appearances, and winger or fullback Leon Te Hau, 21, who is yet to make his debut, round out the list of departures.
Rabbitohs Head of Football, Mark Ellison, expressed the club’s gratitude for the contributions of all the departing players, stating, “As a club we would like to thank Michael, Richie, Dean, Dion, Izaac, and Leon for their service to South Sydney. Some of these players will have opportunities at other NRL clubs, and we wish them and their families the very best of luck in the future. They will always be regarded as proud Rabbitohs.”
The conclusion of the 2024 season brings a period of transition for the Rabbitohs as they prepare for life without several long-serving players. While the departures of Burgess and Cook mark the end of an era, the club remains focused on building for the future, with new talent waiting in the wings and the Rabbitohs faithful eager to see what comes next.
