In Manly, a community steeped in rugby league history, the Carroll family stands out with two compelling stories of aspiration and resilience. Their name, synonymous with the northern beaches, reflects the enduring spirit of the sport and its people.
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From Brookvale to Dallas: Indi Carroll’s cheerleading dream
At 26, Indi Carroll’s pursuit of her American dream took her to Texas, where she competed against 60 other hopefuls for a coveted position with the Dallas Cowboys cheerleading squad. The daughter of Manly legend Mark Carroll and Seabirds founder Monique Carroll has been a fixture at Brookvale Oval since she could walk.
“Indi came along and she has been wearing some sort of cheer uniform since the age of one,” recalls Monique, who established the Manly Seabirds cheerleaders in 1995 and continues to guide the troupe today.
Although Indi missed selection during the final interview round of the Dallas Cowboys auditions, her determination remains steadfast. “It’s my biggest dream,” the 26-year-old shares. “I’m not ready to let it go just yet.”
Mark Carroll: battling CTE
While his daughter reaches for her dreams, Mark “Spudd” Carroll faces a challenging chapter. Last September, the former State of Origin and Australian front-rower opened up about his struggle with anxiety due to suspected chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a progressive brain condition caused by repeated head trauma, often affecting contact-sport athletes.
At 57, Carroll has disclosed that the anxiety has impacted his voice, sparking concern among fans who noticed changes during his media appearances. “I wish it was from getting hit in the throat like my great mate Geoff Toovey or Gary Larson. Unfortunately, it’s the symptoms of CTE,” Carroll explained.
The northern beaches community has rallied around one of their favourite sons, with messages of support flowing in for Carroll’s candid disclosure about his health struggles. His openness has sparked renewed discussions about player welfare and the long-term impacts of professional rugby league.
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The Carroll family legacy
The rugby league legend has become a vocal advocate for player welfare, calling for extended concussion protocols in the NRL. “The stand down is eleven days. That’s bullshit,” he states firmly, advocating for at least three weeks of mandatory rest after concussion incidents.
The family’s ongoing involvement with the Sea Eagles, through both Indi’s performances and Monique’s leadership of the Seabirds, ensures their legacy continues to inspire the next generation of northern beaches sport.
Published 03-January-2025
