HUNSLET outside back Matty Dawson-Jones has retired – shortly after making his 250th career appearance.
The announcement of the 35-year-old former Super League player’s decision came after he featured in the first two matches of the season for the Leeds side, who signed him in November.
A Hunslet debut in the centres in the league opener at home to Dewsbury was Dawson-Jones’ landmark game after five for his first club Huddersfield, ten on loan at Doncaster, six on dual registration for Rochdale, 50 for St Helens, 67 for Leigh, one for Hull FC, 32 for Bradford and 78 for Sheffield.
The man who has topped 120 tries also figured at centre in Hunslet’s 44-0 Challenge Cup win at Stanningley which sealed a third-round visit from Huddersfield on Friday.
“I’m sorry it’s happened so early in the season, but if I’m honest my heart’s not in it anymore and I wouldn’t be giving the team what they deserve if I kept going,” he explained,
“This has been a really hard decision to make and one I’m still coming to terms with, but I have decided to step away from rugby.
“I’m at a time now where my work commitments are outweighing the rugby and I am wanting to spend more time with my family, I know it’s the right call for me.
“I want to say a massive thank you to the lads and staff at Hunslet for being so welcoming, especially (director of rugby) Keith Senior, (coach) Kyle Trout and the board for being so understanding and agreeing to release me.”
Hunslet chief executive Neil Hampshire said: “It’s always sad when players decide to hang up their boots. However it’s important that we understand and support Matty at this time.
“He leaves the sport having played at the highest level and can be rightly proud of his career. We wish him every success.”