Wynne Gray: Foran's letter inspirational

Don't know Kieran Foran. Never met him but I've watched him play rugby league for Manly, the Kiwis and more interestingly now he's clad in the mighty blue and gold colours at the Eels.

From what I read or heard about Foran, he seemed to be one of the more dedicated and ego-free players on the NRL circuit.

That impression was enhanced when I saw he'd written a letter to his new Parramatta teammates as he dealt with a personal crisis which forced him to stand aside from the job he clearly loves.

When he was trying to deal with some issues which had derailed his life, even in that pain and with that distraction, Foran wrote to his Eels teammates to urge their forgiveness and encourage them against the Bulldogs.

Whatever the connection the Eels bullocked their way to a 20-12 victory. They played with the determination and energy Foran brings to every game he plays.

Foran's note was read out before the game while he was apparently checking into an offshore rehab unit after spending a few nights in a Sydney hospital dealing with an overdose of prescription medicine.

"I'm not sure if I would be able to wake up each day, to go to training, if it wasn't for you boys," Foran wrote to the Eels.

"I've played in a lot of great teams bit I haven't played in a group as tight as this before.
"I love you guys. You have held me together. Coming to training , to be with you boys, is the reason I wake up each morning.

"Thank you for your support. I know I've let you down but rest assured I can't wait to get back and when I do, I'll be ready to go."

Was the note cathartic? Maybe. Let's say it was inspirational and let's hope there is a similar result for Foran.