14 Facts About Martin Bella

Martin Bella first came to prominence playing in the Foley Shield competition.

In 1983, Martin Bella left north Queensland to play for the Easts Tigers in Brisbane Rugby League premiership.

In 1986, Martin Bella played 23 games for the Bears in his first season at the club, starting 19 games at prop.

In 1989, Martin Bella played 17 games for the Bears and was named man of the match in Queensland's Game One win over New South Wales.

Martin Bella played in 22 games for the Sea Eagles and was named the Dally M Prop of the Year.

Unfortunately for Martin Bella, he paid the price for Australia's first Ashes series loss to Great Britain at Wembley Stadium and was replaced in the test team by Glenn Lazarus for the remaining tests on the tour.

In 1991, Martin Bella won his second man of the match award in the third and deciding match of the 1991 State of Origin series.

Martin Bella played his final two Tests during Australia's tour of Papua New Guinea in 1991, played a total of nine Tests for his country.

In 1995, Martin Bella decided against retirement and returned to north Queensland, signing with the newly established North Queensland Cowboys.

Martin Bella played just 14 games for the Cowboys, being released from the club at the back end of the 1995 season due to behavioural issues.

Martin Bella considered retirement after his release by the Cowboys but again decided against it, signing with the Gold Coast Chargers in 1996.

Martin Bella holds a degree in physiotherapy and has run his own practice in the Queensland rural town of Sarina.

In 2000, Martin Bella was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for his contribution to Australia's international standing in rugby league.

In 2008, Martin Bella was named in the North Queensland rugby league Team of the Century.