Queensland players and staff have hailed Mason Gordon as "selfless", "generous" and "team-first" following the 22-year-old's shock medical retirement on Wednesday.
In an open letter shared by Reds media, Gordon outlined his decision to retire after sustaining a pre-season concussion from which he continues to have symptoms.
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A talented utility back, Gordon earned four Queensland caps after beginning his professional career with the Melbourne Rebels.
Speaking with reporters on Wednesday, Queensland coach Les Kiss described Gordon as "a quality human" who gave "all of his heart and soul and expertise to the team".
"He’s a quality human being, you could see it meant a lot to him to become a Red," Kiss said.
"Our thoughts go out to him. He was here yesterday and had a good chat to the lads. It’s great that he’s been well looked after, but he hasn’t been sitting on his heels either; he’s been working hard on his qualifications."
Reds teammate Lachie Anderson played alongside Gordon at two clubs - Queensland and the Melbourne Rebels - and was full of praise for the Sunshine Coast junior.
"Mason’s a great mate to a lot of those boys in the building and he’s been a great servant in the Queensland Reds jersey … whatever you asked of Mason, it was never too much," Anderson said.
"It’s obviously sad, but I’ve been fortunate enough to spend the last couple of years with Mason, and I’ve watched him grow and develop on and off the field and achieve his goals.
"He’s a bloody good bloke firstly, a very skilled football player, and I think he’s made an informed medical decision that’s going to put his welfare first.
"We fully are behind that and support him in any way we can … whichever path he chooses to go down.
"It’s a great loss for us, but again, we’re really looking forward to seeing his journey and watching that unfold."
