Last season for Barrett
22/07/2010 2:26 PM
Adam Lucius
Sportal
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Cronulla skipper Trent Barrett has ended months of speculation by confirming he will retire at the end of the season.
The former international played for Illawarra, St George Illawarra, Wigan and the Sharks in a career spanning 1996-2010.
He played 11 games for NSW and 15 Tests for Australia.
Incoming Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan was keen for Barrett to have a final year in the NRL, while the Eels also tried to lure the 32-year-old to Parramatta for a farewell season.
The Temora-born Barrett will stay close to the game in retirement, working with the NRL to promote the game in the bush.
"I have decided after long and careful consideration to announce my retirement from rugby league at the conclusion of the current season," he said in a statement on Thursday.
"I would like to thank everyone especially my lovely wife Kylie and my family who have supported and encouraged me every step of the way during my career in the greatest game of all."
"I feel privileged to have played at three terrific clubs in St George Illawarra, Wigan and Cronulla and to have been coached by some very talented coaches."
"Among one of the highlights of my career was that I got to play with and against many of the genuine superstars of the game."
"Rugby league has been good to me and I hope to continue my involvement in the game with the NRL and Country rugby league helping to foster and promote the sport in the bush."
"I leave rugby league completely satisfied and proud of my achievements and with plenty of lasting memories."
haha
