‘Heart of the Bulldogs’: Selfless skipper retires from NRL

He’s been the heart and soul of the club for a decade, but Bulldogs skipper Josh Jackson’s time in the NRL is over.

Josh Jackson retires as one of the most popular players in Bulldogs history. Picture: Phil Hillyard

Club legend Josh Jackson has announced his retirement from the NRL with a year left to run on his deal at the Bulldogs.

The 31-year-old has chosen to spend more time with his young family after an 11-year career at Canterbury in which he represented his state and country.

Jackson was part of the Canterbury teams that made grand finals in 2012 and 2014 and took over the captaincy in 2018.

Josh Jackson was one of the best back-rowers and was a key part of Canterbury’s success in his early years. Picture: Brett Hemmings/Getty Images

The tireless back-rower played 241 matches for the Bulldogs and claimed the highly coveted Brad Fittler Medal in 2016 as the best NSW player in the State of Origin series that year.

Jackson endured a tough finish to his career, with the Bulldogs finishing in the bottom five every year since 2018, but he was the one constant shining light as coach after coach came and went.

“Josh has long been at the heart of the Bulldogs,” said Bulldogs Rugby League Football Club chairman John Khoury.

“He has led this great club with pride. He has bled blue and white and played for his state and for his country.

“We know this decision has not been an easy one, and while it is a sad day, there is no doubt that despite not lacing up the boots and running out in 2023, he will continue to inspire the Bulldogs team and our community for many more years to come.

“We cannot thank him enough for everything he has done for our club, but now it is time to reflect on and celebrate his wonderful career.”

Jackson has stayed loyal to the club even though things have been tough on and off the field. Picture: Matt King/Getty Images

Jackson’s departure will free up plenty of cash for 2023 as the Bulldogs look to continue their rebuild under incoming coach Cameron Ciraldo.

The club is desperate to re-sign Matt Burton on a long-term deal, while they are also searching for another star recruit to help them return to the finals for the first time since 2016.

The Bulldogs will be far more competitive next season, with Reed Mahoney and Viliame Kikau joining the club, but they will need to fill the massive leadership void caused by Jackson’s exit.

“Josh has always epitomised what this club is about,” Bulldogs assistant coach Mick Potter said after leading Jackson as the club’s interim coach for much of 2022.

“He’s tough. He’s resilient. He leaves everything on the footy field.

“He is and always will be the epitome of a Bulldog.

“His efforts and professionalism are unparalleled, and it will be hard to fill that void in the team.

“Josh’s actions have always been about doing the best for the team and the club, and that is what he has done.”