Two and a half years ago, Josh Addo-Carr returned to Sydney, leaving behind his celebrated tenure with the Melbourne Storm. Under the guidance of coach Craig Bellamy, Addo-Carr’s career soared, a remarkable achievement considering it could have ended after his dismissal from the Wests Tigers following just nine NRL appearances. Despite five successful seasons and two premierships with the Storm, something was missing – something that had little to do with the game itself. Josh Addo-Carr: From NRL Star to Business Mogul
A Move Back Home
In 2022, Addo-Carr signed a four-year deal with the Canterbury Bulldogs. While the contract, reportedly worth around $2 million, was a financial upgrade from his previous $375,000-a-season deal with the Storm, the move wasn’t about the money. It was about being closer to his Gunggandji, Birrbay, and Wiradjuri family.
“I’m loving being back in Sydney, being around family and all of my mates and loved ones,” Addo-Carr shared with Nine media in 2022.
Beyond Rugby League
Returning to Sydney’s western suburbs, the heartland of rugby league, gave Addo-Carr more than just a change of scenery. Known for his speed on the field, the Foxx found new avenues to leverage his profile. While he continued to make an impact on the field with the Bulldogs, Addo-Carr embarked on a marketing venture that combined his love for the game with a flair for business.
The Birth of Lets Trot
Addo-Carr’s innovative spirit led to the creation of Lets Trot, an apparel brand specializing in streetwear. The brand, featuring hoodies, t-shirts, and caps, was cleverly marketed with a unique twist. Addo-Carr’s genius marketing included a commercial where he rode a horse down a suburban Sydney street, ending with Bulldogs football boss Phil Gould humorously declaring, “Let’s trot, baby!”
“When we were teenagers, all of my cousins used to say it,” Addo-Carr explained. “When I shared it out on Instagram, everyone started saying it. They love saying it and now they have a chance to wear it.”
Success in Numbers
In its first 18 months, Lets Trot turned over more than $1 million. The brand’s popularity was bolstered by Addo-Carr’s substantial social media following, including 302k Instagram followers. His influence spread across platforms like YouTube and TikTok, ensuring that even those who weren’t Bulldogs supporters were drawn to his brand.
The Lets Trot Podcast
Addo-Carr’s entrepreneurial ventures didn’t stop at apparel. Teaming up with retired NRL winger Josh Mansour, he launched the Lets Trot podcast. The podcast features relaxed, engaging interviews with prominent rugby league figures, offering a fresh perspective that mainstream media often misses.
“Everyone knows me as a person who always has fun and enjoys what he does,” Addo-Carr said about the podcast. “I enjoy this kind of stuff; I want to put a smile on people’s faces. We just wanted to make a video, come up with something different, and be creative at the same time.”
Overcoming Adversity
Addo-Carr’s journey to success wasn’t straightforward. Growing up in Doonside, a suburb plagued by drugs, alcohol, and violence, his early life was challenging. His mother made the tough decision to move the family to Redfern, seeking a safer environment and closer ties to their cultural roots.
“It was a big sacrifice, she made a tough decision, but she put us kids first,” Addo-Carr reflected.
The Empire Grows
Now estimated to have a net worth exceeding $3 million, Addo-Carr’s story is one of resilience, talent, and innovation. From his humble beginnings in Blacktown to his rise as a rugby league star and successful entrepreneur, Addo-Carr continues to inspire and entertain, both on and off the field.
As his brand and influence continue to grow, one thing is clear: Josh Addo-Carr is much more than just a rugby league player. He is a testament to what can be achieved with hard work, creativity, and a deep connection to one’s roots.
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