FORMER Leigh Leopards and Huddersfield Giants star Ricky Leutele has called time on his career.
Leutele, who made 48 appearances for Leigh and 37 for Huddersfield, most recently played for Souths Logan Magpies in the Queensland Cup.
However, the 35-year-old has now hung up his boots after making six appearances for the Magpies in the second tier of the Australian leagues.
Leutele began his rugby league career with Cronulla Sharks, where he spent nine seasons and played 128 games, successfully helping the NRL side to Grand Final glory in 2016.
The powerful centre moved to the northern hemisphere ahead of the 2019 season, joining the Toronto Wolfpack and helping the club earn promotion to the Super League.
Following the Canadian side’s withdrawal from the competition in 2020, Leutele returned to the NRL with the Melbourne Storm, but made just one appearance.
His stay in the NRL didn’t last long, and Leutele returned to Super League with Huddersfield and then Leigh.
Leutele posted on Instagram: “Better late than never 😉 12 months since we moved back from England, and this year has given me the chance to really reflect on my career.
“What a ride it has been. Just a kid from Logan, Woodridge with big dreams of playing just one game of NRL, going on to play 14 years professionally across the NRL and Super League — it’s something I could have only dreamed of.
“Mum, Dad, and my siblings — thank you for taking me to training and games when I was younger. The road was never easy, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.
“Over the years there were setbacks, injuries, and moments of self-doubt that challenged me. Every obstacle only made me stronger. Even when quitting felt like the easier option, I’m proud I pushed through. Along the way I was fortunate enough to hit milestones, win a premiership, play for my country, and represent my culture and family 🦍.
“Thank you to @cronullasharks for the opportunity to debut in 2010, where I spent 10 years at the club and made Cronulla my new home. Thank you to @torontowolfpackofficial , @storm , @giantsrl_official , and @leighrlfc for trusting me to represent your clubs on and off the field. To my coaches, managers, teammates, and the fans — thank you for the memories.
“To my wife — thank you for always sticking by me. Your love, belief, and sacrifice through the moves, time apart, late nights, and injuries never went unnoticed. I couldn’t have done this without you. You are the real MVP 🩶.
“To my three babies — life got better the moment you all came into my world. I’m grateful I could give you a life I never had. You’ve been with me through most of Dad’s career, but now it’s my turn to support and watch you in your sports 😍.
“Forever grateful for the memories, friendships, and lessons. Excited for what’s ahead and to give back to the next generation chasing a dream like the life I was fortunate enough to live.”