Lillyman calls time on career

NRL veteran Jacob Lillyman has made the decision to call time on his career at season's end, after 16 seasons in first grade.

The 34-year-old has played 15 games for the Knights in his first and only season with the club, after 188 appearances for the Warriors and 62 for the Cowboys.

"I've had an incredible career. I have no regrets," Lillyman told newcastleknights.com.au.

"I have some many fond memories from every Club I've had the pleasure to play for. I was fortunate to represent my state and make some incredible friendships along the way.

"I can't thank my family enough for all their support. It's been one incredible journey."

Lillyman also played 14 matches for Queensland in the State of Origin arena, and was apart of all three matches during their 2015 series triumph.

"I came to the decision quite a while ago. The mind and the body reach appoint where going another year isn't an option and it's been a bit of a battle this year," Lillyman said on his reitrement.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to play for this great Club but at the end of the year, I'm riding off into the sunset."

Lillyman joined the Knights to mentor the young playing group and act as a leader both on and off the field, and Newcastle coach Nathan Brown thanked Lillyman for his efforts across the 2018 season.

"Not only is Ox a professional on the field, he's a champion person off it," Brown told the club's website.

"He's a consistent performer, so it's no surprise he had such a long career in the Queensland jersey.

"The influence he's had on our younger boys has been enormous.

"He's brought some quality habits to the Club which will pay dividends in years to come."