He still had a year left to go on his contract but Canterbury Bulldogs forward and captain Josh Jackson feels like now is the right time to retire.
Jackson’s decision comes as he chooses to take a step away from the game and spend more time with his family.
All players have someone who epitomises the heart and soul of the club and for the Bulldogs, that player was Jackson.
That notion has not been lost even on those that are in charge of running the club.
“Josh has long been at the heart of the Bulldogs,” said Bulldogs Rugby League Football Club Chairman John Khoury.
“He has led this great Club with pride.
“He has bled blue and white, and played for his state and for his country.”
Playing in 11 seasons for the Bulldogs for a total of 241 NRL games, the Gulgong junior also received mass praise from Mick Potter, now 2023 assistant coach for the Bulldogs.
“Josh has always epitomised what this Club is about. He’s tough. He’s resilient. He leaves everything on the footy field,” Potter said.
“He is and always will be, the epitome of a Bulldog.”
“His efforts and professionalism are unparalleled, and it will be hard to fill that void in the team.
“Josh’s actions have always been about doing the best for the team and the Club, and that is what he has done”.