South Sydney’s all-time leading tryscorer Nathan Merritt has announced his retirement from the NRL after 13 seasons and 236 games.
“I’m proud to have worn the red and green,” Merritt said on Wednesday, flanked by his teammates, coach Michael Maguire, chief executive Shane Richardson, family and friends.
“It’s been a remarkable ride … something I never thought I would do.”
Merritt broke Benny Wearing’s long-standing Rabbitohs all-time tryscoring record with his 145th first grade try in round six against Penrith, but has only played two games since.
Maguire has preferred boom rookie Alex Johnston, who has 16 tries in 19 games and will play in Souths’ preliminary final against bitter arch-rivals the Sydney Roosters at ANZ Stadium on Friday night.
Souths feeder club North Sydney failed to make the finals, which means Merritt hasn’t played in a month, given the NSW Cup season ended a week before the NRL.
Merritt grew up on “The Block” in Redfern and played his junior football with Alexandria Rovers in the South Sydney junior competition.
He has spent all but two of his seasons with the Rabbitohs, playing with Cronulla in 2004 and 2005.
Nate
Guest
Thanks Nathan for all the memories, even providing fans plenty of highlights during the darker days. You will be missed.
Yatayee
Guest
Congratulations Nathan! A stellar career from a wonderful bloke. Your honesty and integrity has worn off on all the junior players in the club, and you will be sorely missed, but you deserve to hang the boots up and enjoy your retirement. Good luck to you and your family for the years ahead. GGTSS.
Worlds Biggest
Guest
Congrats on a great career Merro, a Rabbitohs legend !
millsy of perth
Guest
Congrats on your career Nathan enjoy your retirement
Statler and Waldorf
Roar Guru
Great player but from what I have seen he is an even better person. A great role model.
The Barry
Guest
Great player to watch. Lots of tries and lots of highlights. Thanks for your efforts buddy, good luck post footy career.
Bluebag
Guest
When he was at Cronulla he played a whole year just about with Newtown and scored 30 tries that season! He'll always have a special place in the hearts of Jets fans. Congratulations Nathan on an outstanding career and good luck on the next phase of your life. Good to see he won't be lost to rugby league.