Premierships, QLD appearances and Australian appearances. Brisbane Broncos veteran Darius Boyd has done it all in rugby league.
Entering his 15th season and with 317 NRL games to his name, Boyd has played mostly wing or fullback for the entirety of his career.
His body might feel good but Boyd felt the time was right as he now embarks on a new chapter.
“This 2020 season will be my last in rugby league,” said Boyd.
“My body feels great, I’m still excited about playing.
“But I’m also excited about the next chapter of my life.
“And I will go into that next chapter so grateful for everything that has happened over my 15 seasons in the NRL.”
Boyd made numerous memories in the game, all of which he says, will stick with him for life.
“I’ve been fortunate to have some great times in footy – a premiership in my first year with the Broncos.
“A premiership at the Dragons, State of Origin series wins that will stay with me forever, and the honour of playing for my country.
“I grew up a Broncos supporter and I was lucky enough to captain this great club.
“But you can only do those things because of teammates, coaches and management. I’m grateful for them all.”
There was praise from Broncos CEO Paul White, who knows how important Boyd has been to the club.
“Darius is a Premiership winner and a legend of our club,” said White.
“We have all watched Darius mature and grow over the past 14 years in the NRL, and today he sits before you as one of our game’s great statesman and a fantastic ambassador for rugby league.”
Also weighing in was coach Anthony Seibold, who knows Boyd still has something to contribute in 2020.
“Darius is a legend of the game and the Broncos’ club,” said Seibold.
He has achieved every accolade in the game possible, and still has plenty left to contribute to our team in this, his final year.”