Aaron Schoupp, once hailed as a rising star at the Canterbury Bulldogs, has experienced the highs and lows of a professional rugby league career. Now, as he prepares to return from a significant ACL injury in 2026, Schoupp is optimistic about his future with the Manly Sea Eagles, declaring that his “best is yet to come.”
The 25-year-old centre spoke candidly about his aspirations and challenges in an interview with Zero Tackle. “Leaving no stone unturned [is my goal moving forward],” Schoupp stated. “I started off my career playing regular NRL and I want to get back to that. Being part of the Manly Sea Eagles, and playing the best I can — fit and healthy.”
From Promising Talent to Seasoned Player
Schoupp’s journey in the NRL has been anything but straightforward. Initially making waves as a promising talent with the Bulldogs, his career trajectory was disrupted by health issues and unexpected team changes. Despite these setbacks, Schoupp remains focused on his goal to excel in the league.
Reflecting on his career, Schoupp acknowledged the unpredictable nature of professional sports. “I’ve been to three different clubs and I’m 25 this year, so I think for me, I’d love to stay and be a part of Manly moving forward,” he shared. However, he is not naive about the realities of the NRL. “A while ago I put a line out saying I wanted to be a Bulldog for life and that backfired on me pretty quick.”
Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations
Schoupp’s early success in the NRL came with its own set of challenges. He admitted to being swept up by the “bright lights” of the league, a common pitfall for young athletes. “The NRL’s hard, every day you’ve got to perform,” he said. “Sometimes people can take it for granted, and I definitely got caught up in that a little bit [at the Bulldogs].”
“It’s hard because I was playing good footy there and everything was going really well for me, [but I have learned that] you’re easily replaceable.”
With maturity and experience, Schoupp has gained a new perspective on his career. He emphasized the importance of staying present and giving his best performance every day. “Stay in the moment and give your best footy every day because it can go away pretty quick,” he advised.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Return
As Schoupp gears up for what could be the most pivotal season of his career, he has assured Sea Eagles fans that his “best footy is ahead” of him. The upcoming 2026 season represents a fresh start and an opportunity to solidify his place in the NRL.
The announcement comes as Schoupp continues his rehabilitation, aiming to return stronger and more determined than ever. His commitment to the Sea Eagles and his personal growth over the years suggest that he is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Meanwhile, experts in the rugby league community are watching closely, eager to see how Schoupp’s return will impact the Sea Eagles and the league as a whole. With his talent and newfound perspective, Schoupp’s comeback could indeed mark the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
As the 2026 season approaches, Schoupp’s journey serves as a reminder of the resilience and dedication required to succeed in professional sports. His story is one of perseverance, growth, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
