He is already giving back to the game as a full-time employee of the Men of League Foundation, now Ben Ross is about to increase his involvement after being named as one of 40 NRL Ambassadors for 2016.
For what will be his third year as an Ambassador, Ross will look to build on the good work he has already done in regional areas of Australia as he continues to spread positive messages in support of NRL programs.
Injury may have restricted Ross to just 86 games in six seasons at the Sharks, however he was always a willing and enthusiastic contributor on and off the paddock, traits he has since taken into his work with the NRL and his ambassadorial role with the NRL.
Ross will travel around the country in his role as an NRL Ambassador, presenting key programs such as breaking down the stigma of mental health, mentoring young Indigenous students to make an easier transition from school to work and standing up and speaking out about violence against women.
At the induction of the NRL Ambassadors on Wednesday Ross spoke with Sharks TV about the role he hopes to play, while also discussing some of his other ambitions for his life after football.
See the Ross interview, now playing on Sharks TV.
Also following is the list of 2016 NRL Ambassadors.
The 2016 NRL Ambassadors
Adam MacDougall
Alan Tongue
Alex McKinnon
Anthony Minichiello
Ben Ross
Ben Smith
Brent Tate
Brett Kimmorley
Bronson Harrison
Dallas Johnson
Dan Hunt
Danny Buderus
Darren Lockyer
David Simmons
David Peachey
George Rose
Georgia Hale
Jason King
Jerome Ropati
Joe Galuvao
John Skandalis
Josh Perry
Justin Hodges
Luke Bailey
Mario Fenech
Matt Cooper
Matt King
Matt Bowen
Nathan Hindmarsh
Nathan Merritt
Petero Civoniceva
Renae Kunst
Roy Asotasi
Ruan Sims
Samantha Hammond
Shaun Timmins
Stephanie Hancock
Tallisha Harden
Tom Learoyd-Lahrs
Wendell Sailor