St George Illawarra prop Trent Merrin has announced his retirement from the NRL after 253 first-class games.

Merrin made his debut with the Dragons in 2009 and was the last remaining member of the club's 2010 premiership-winning side.

The veteran forward also ventured with the Panthers and Super League outfit Leeds Rhinos before a return to Kogarah last year.

A former New South Wales representative and Australian Test player, Merrin ends an illustrious career across 13 years.

SEE ALSO:ย Warriors release young gun to join Sydney club

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 15: Cameron Smith, Greg Inglis, Matt Scott, Trent Merrin and Shannon Boyd of Australia line up for the Australian national anthem during the International Rugby League Test match between the Australian Kangaroos and the New Zealand Kiwis at nib Stadium on October 15, 2016 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

"I'm very happy to be able to finish my career on my own terms. This was a decision where I had to be true to myself. I have outgrown the game and the game has outgrown me, although my appreciation for rugby league will never die," Merrin said, perย NRL.com.ย 

"My dream growing up was always to play for the Dragons, a club I have always held in high esteem. I have achieved everything my younger self ever wanted and that is something I'll always be grateful for.

"The time I spent at the Penrith Panthers, another prestigious club I hold close to my heart, remains one of the proudest things I also had the pleasure of being part of.

PENRITH, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 30:
Trent Merrin of the Panthers is tackled during the round 16 NRL match between the Penrith Panthers and the Manly Sea Eagles at Panthers Stadium on June 30, 2018 in Penrith, Australia. (Photo by Tony Feder/Getty Images)

SIGNING NEWS:ย Cowboys fil halfback void with Sharks veteran

"I wouldn't have been able to achieve everything I have without my family and the sacrifices they made. They, alongside my beautiful fiancรฉ and baby boy, have been there throughout the highs and lows of my career.

"They also rode the wave of emotion when it came to this decision to conclude a wonderful career. I'm keen to see the younger players step up in my place as the Dragons continues its exciting journey."

Merrin's decision to hang up the boots will be taken with immediate effect.

2 COMMENTS

  1. St.George have been out buying more players. So now Merrin is retiring , effective immediately. No coincidence there.
    A pay out offered & told he was retiring now more likely.

  2. He really doesn’t like Maguire! rofl.
    What ever the case Trent has been a good player for the Dragons and represented the Illawarra well. I wish him all the best and thanks for the memories.

Comments are closed.