Michael Morgan is a profile NRL legend who played for the North Queensland Cowboys. Born and breed in Townsville, Queensland, Michael began his rugby league journey at a young age and eventually established himself as one of the most talented players in the NRL.

Michael attended Kirwan State High School in Townsville and started playing rugby league for the Kirwan Bears. He was soon scouted by the North Queensland Cowboys and joined their Under-20s squad in 2009. Michael was a standout performer for the Under-20s and was soon promoted to the Cowboys’ first-grade squad in 2010.

Michael made his NRL debut for the Cowboys in Round 6 of the 2010 season, at the age of just 18. He was primarily used as a utility player in his first few seasons, playing in the halves, at fullback and in the centres. However, it was clear that Michael’s future was in the halves, where he could fully utilise his skills and talents.

In 2014, Michael established himself as the Cowboys’ starting five-eighth, forming a lethal partnership with halfback Johnathan Thurston. The duo led the Cowboys to their first NRL Grand Final appearance in a decade, where they were unfortunately beaten by the Brisbane Broncos in extra time.

The following year, Michael played a pivotal role in the Cowboys’ NRL Premiership victory. He scored a try and set up another in the Grand Final against the Brisbane Broncos, earning the Clive Churchill Medal for his outstanding performance. Michael’s combination with Thurston was a key factor in the Cowboys’ success, and the duo were regarded as one of the best halves pairings in the NRL.

Michael continued to impress in the following years, earning representative honours for Queensland and Australia. He was a key member of the Queensland State of Origin team that won the series in 2017, and he also played in the Kangaroos’ successful 2017 Rugby League World Cup campaign.

Unfortunately, injuries started to take a toll on Michael in the latter stages of his career. He suffered a serious knee injury in 2019 that required surgery and kept him out of action for most of the season. Michael attempted a comeback in 2020 but struggled for form and announced his retirement from rugby league in February 2021, at the age of 29.

Despite his relatively short career, Michael’s impact on the game was significant. He played 168 NRL games for the Cowboys and scored 53 tries, becoming one of the club’s most beloved and respected players. He was known for his skill, versatility and toughness on the field, and his leadership and sportsmanship off it.

Outside of rugby league, Michael is known for his involvement in various charitable initiatives. He is a passionate supporter of the Cowboys Community Foundation, which aims to improve the lives of young people in North Queensland through education and health programs. Michael has also worked with the Townsville Hospital Foundation and the Starlight Children’s Foundation, among other organisations.

In retirement, Michael has remained involved in rugby league as a commentator and analyst for Fox Sports. He has also taken up coaching, serving as an assistant coach for the North Queensland Cowboys’ Under-21s team in 2021.

Michael’s NRL career may have been cut short by injury, but his impact on the game and the North Queensland Cowboys will be felt for many years to come. He was a true champion on and off the field, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of rugby league players.