Former St George Illawarra and Penrith playmaker Jamie Soward has called time on his rugby league career.
The 31-year-old played 215 games in his 12 NRL seasons – the bulk with the Dragons where he played five-eighth in their 2010 premiership side.
“Thanks for having me in the game,” Soward wrote on Twitter on Monday.
“I couldn’t have wished for more in my career.
“Next chapter to start ASAP. Looking for work.”
Soward, who represented NSW in three State of Origin games in 2011, was released by his third NRL club Penrith mid-year after being dropped to reserve grade.
Rising star Nathan Cleary took his place, Soward unable to force his way back before a short second stint with English second-tier team London Broncos.
Soward, a three-time Indigenous All-Star, was labelled as the the Panthers’ marquee signing when he moved to the foot of the mountains ahead of the 2014 season.
Panthers general manager Phil Gould has previously said he would welcome Soward back to the club in a coaching role should he want to transition his career down that path.
Footy 101
Guest
Had his haters but had his fans. Defence criticised but did more than enough in attack. Won a Comp, played for state and boy could he kick goals. Forever in the Illawarra hearts
Dean - Surry Hills
Guest
Charles would play him at centre. Lordy would have him on the wing.
Alex L
Roar Rookie
err, 2015 not 2014.
Alex L
Roar Rookie
Back surgery in 2014 had a pretty obvious effect on him, he probably could've stuck around another few years, but why push it with his best well behind him.
The Barry
Roar Guru
Nice words from Soward. It's refreshing to read of a player grateful for his opportunity and position in the game. He's copped more flak than most. Justified at times and grossly unfair at others. I'm sure CharlesNSW would still pick him for the blues in 2017.
Magnus M. Østergaard
Roar Guru
Hopefully someone will do the sixshooter celebration in his honour Rd 1 .
Dean - Surry Hills
Guest
Thanks for bringing rain in 2010 Jamie. Possibly a career in radio, or the media would suit best. He also identifies strengths and weaknesses in his opponents quite well. These are the vital stepping stones to becoming a good coach.
Wtf
Guest
Ironically the NRL team that would benefit from signing Jamie most hasn't been breathing fire lately..... Somebody at the Dragons got this one wrong
maximillian
Roar Rookie
Hes only 31 & his kicking game was 1 of the best around. Im unsure why hes retiring but if hes still got some juice in the legs he could probably keep going.