But his time away from the game was not deprived of benefits, as he became a teacher aide at Heatley State School.
Bell said it gave him something to get up for every morning, while also an insight into what life after rugby league may be for him.
He said football was never going to last forever, but his experience working with the school students opened his eyes to a new future he had not previously considered. NRL; North Queensland Cowboys training at Queensland Country Bank Stadium. Michael Bell . Picture: Alix Sweeney
“I really enjoyed it. It was awesome. I’d never really done something like that before,” Bell said.