Bulldogs cult hero Josh Reynolds announces snap retirement
Canterbury favourite son Josh Reynolds has made a big announcement after one final classy act for his beloved club.
NRL
Don't miss out on the headlines from NRL. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Bulldogs cult hero Josh Reynolds has announced his retirement.
The 33-year-old confirmed his snap decision to step away before the end of the season through a club statement on Monday.
The former NSW State of Origin playmaker will play one final game for his beloved club when the Bulldogs’ NSW Cup side clash with the North Sydney Bears at the club’s spiritual home of Belmore on Saturday.
Watch every game of every round of the 2023 NRL Telstra Premiership Season LIVE on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
Reynolds, who did not play Cup or NRL last weekend, broke the news to his teammates on Monday morning, according to foxsports.com.au.
It comes after it was revealed he gave up his spot in the Top 30 to allow the Bulldogs to sign new recruit Toby Sexton.
The club has announced it will honour Reynolds during the first grade team’s NRL clash with the Broncos in the game that follows Reynolds’ farewell.
The club has announced that they will once again re-name the hill at Belmore ‘Josh Reynolds Hill’ for the occasion.
The five eighth was overcome with emotion when fronting the press on Monday while surrounded by his teammates.
“I decided to hang the boots up,” Reynolds said through a shaky voice.
“It’s so hard to think about footy not being a part of my life anymore but it’s time,” he added after a long pause.
“This club means more to me than the game to be honest.
“I honestly wouldn’t be the person I am today if I didn’t start here. Even just these boys being in here right now — I’m going to miss that so much because I’ve been chasing the feeling ever since I left and I finally got it back.
“I’ve got so many good memories. The thing I’m probably going to miss the most is being able to compete and never in my career have I gone into a game not wanting to compete.
“This year’s been one of the best years of my career because there’s been moments because I’ve been a part of some of these guys’ lives since they were kids and to be able to play with some of them is very special.
“To look at that photo of me and (Jacob) Kiraz and to be able to play with him, it’s so special.
“It’s been a massive ride... What a rollercoaster career it’s been on and off the field.”
Reynolds took a deep breath to get over the tears before saying “I might be able to tell the real stories now,” as the entire room laughed.
“To be able to sit on the bench with Khaled (Rajab) for his debut, he’s way better than what I’ve ever done.
“I’m just honestly grateful for the club giving me another chance to be able to do my best and show these boys hopefully what it means to be the best Bulldogs they can.”
Reynolds played 167 NRL games — 145 of those with the Bulldogs — and four Origin games for NSW. He played five-eighth in the Dogs’ 2012 and 2014 grand final appearances.
Originally published as Bulldogs cult hero Josh Reynolds announces snap retirement
Broncos star Ezra Mam enters rehab
Brisbane Broncos star Ezra Mam is undergoing immediate professional treatment in the wake of his head-on car accident which has left his $4 million NRL contract in jeopardy.
Kiwi revenge mission: Kangaroos out to restore pride in jersey
The Kangaroos were embarrassed by New Zealand in the Pacific Championships final last year. Star prop Lindsay Collins has vowed to restore pride in green and gold jumper this time round.