Former NSW State of Origin halfback Trent Hodkinson has retired from rugby league after being unable to recover from persistent knee injuries.
Hodkinson has confirmed the 2019 season will be his last, and will end his career where it began at Manly in 2010.
An Origin-series winner with NSW in 2014 when he broke the Blues’ drought with a match-winning try in Game 2, Hodkinson also played in a grand final with Canterbury that year.
But he has battled knee injuries for the past four seasons after being a big-name recruit to Newcastle in 2016.
“Unfortunately due to a new injury sustained earlier this year, numerous medical procedures and intensive rehabilitation, I have been forced to give up the game that I love and will be medically retiring from rugby league,” Hodkinson said.
One of the NRL’s best organisers in his prime, the 174-game playmaker formed part of a formidable Canterbury attack in his first years under coach Des Hasler.
But the 31-year-old was limited to just one NRL game – in the opening round – and three NSW Cup fixtures since reuniting with Hasler at the Sea Eagles this year.
The Barry
Roar Guru
Hodkinson was a very smart player but after his first couple of knee injuries he lost what zip he had and became too easy to defend against. Did what few NSW halves have been able to do and stepped up in the clutch to win an origin game and series...that was a brilliant moment. I was watching at the Windsor Hotel and there was beer flying, screaming and grown men in tears. I couldn’t talk above a whisper for two days. He won’t be a hall of famer but thanks to that moment people will remember his name. All the same, he’s another brave player who’s put his body through hell for our entertainment. Thanks Hokko...!!!
kk
Roar Pro
Will always be one of the greatest in my book.