Matt Srama

PHOTO: Matt Srama. SPORTING NEWS

🎯 “Footy was just the beginning – real success came when I took control of my money.” 🎯

💥 From Big Hits to Bigger Moves

Matt Srama had what many would consider a dream career – making it to the NRL as a professional athlete, earning big money, and living the lifestyle. But when injuries cut his rugby league career short, Matt was faced with a terrifying reality:

What’s next when your identity and income vanish overnight?

Instead of spiralling, he pivoted – and today, he’s not just surviving but thriving with a 16-property portfolio and his own successful business.

🏉 The NRL Glory Days – and the Financial Blind Spots

Matt debuted in the NRL with the Gold Coast Titans and quickly became a fan favourite. But while the paycheques were big, financial literacy wasn’t part of the game plan.

“I didn’t grow up with money skills. I had to unlearn bad habits and re-learn how to make money work for me.”

Like many young athletes, Matt admits he initially spent freely. It wasn’t until the career-ending injuries hit that he realised his lifestyle wasn’t sustainable without a serious financial plan.

🏡 The First Investment – And the Property Snowball

Matt didn’t waste time. After hanging up the boots, he jumped into real estate – starting with a single property, then another, and then:

🚀 Boom: A 16-property portfolio built strategically over years.

He didn’t do it with luck. He did it with:

  • Smart asset selection

  • Strong lending structures

  • A clear, evolving investing philosophy

“It’s not just about buying. It’s about buying right, with a long-term plan.”

💼 Building a Business From Scratch

Post-NRL, Matt didn’t just invest in bricks and mortar. He also started his own business, learning everything from the ground up.

“It was like being a rookie again. I had to build from scratch, network, learn marketing, finance, everything. But I loved the grind.”

🧠 Lessons From the Journey

Matt’s journey is filled with hard-earned wisdom, including:

✅ The power of financial education
✅ Why your first few purchases matter most
✅ How to leverage equity smartly
✅ Why mental resilience is more important than money

He also shares why he’s changed his investing strategy over time, now focusing more on long-term growth and sustainability rather than just high-yield buys.

📈 What’s Next? Matt’s 2025 Playbook

Looking ahead, Matt is eyeing key markets to buy in 2025, with a focus on:

  • Areas with strong infrastructure spending

  • Properties with upside potential through renovation or development

  • Smarter lending and tighter portfolio management

“The game changes, and you’ve got to change with it.”

🔑 Takeaway: Anyone Can Rebuild – But You Have to Start

Matt Srama’s story is proof that life after sport – or any major career shift – doesn’t have to be a fall from grace. With mindset, strategy, and hustle, you can go from zero to serious success.

📢 Want to build your own portfolio like Matt?
Start with education, surround yourself with the right mentors, and stop waiting for the ‘perfect time.’

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