Joel Thompson is a retired Australian professional rugby league player who enjoyed a distinguished career across the NRL and English Super League, recognised for his toughness, versatility and leadership on and off the field.

Born in Ivanhoe, New South Wales, Joel is of Indigenous Australian heritage and began his professional career with the Canberra Raiders, making his NRL debut in 2008. He went on to play over 230 NRL matches with the Raiders, St George Illawarra Dragons and Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, primarily at second row, while also featuring in the centres earlier in his career.

In 2021, Joel moved to the English Super League with St Helens, where he made an immediate impact. Despite retiring during that season, he played a key role in St Helens’ Challenge Cup Final victory at Wembley, adding a major international honour to his résumé.

At representative level, Joel was a proud and long‑serving member of the Indigenous All Stars, representing the side on seven occasions between 2010 and 2020. He also represented NSW Country Origin in 2011 and 2015, showcasing his consistency and standing within the game.

Away from the field, Joel is widely respected for his community leadership and advocacy, including his work in mental health awareness and Indigenous youth programs, highlighted by his receipt of the 2016 Ken Stephen Medal for service to the community.