[1] Spence was captaining the Balmain Ryde Eastwood Tigers in 2012 when he suffered a season-ending knee injury.

The specialist surgeon, Dr Simon Tan, said it looked as though a bomb had exploded inside my knee.

Coach Mick Potter said, "Disappointing to see him go but happy to see him get an opportunity and earn some reasonable money at another club.

Panthers CEO Trent Pascoe said, "He could've travelled overseas or played Nintendo because he was still getting contract money.

"[6] Spence officially retired from the NRL at the end of the 2015 season,[7] and was employed by Wests Tigers as a Fan Engagement and Community Manager.