NRL ironman Brett Kimmorley has declared his willingness to defy retirement for another three seasons - when he'll be 36. Describing last year's campaign as "easy", Kimmorley told The Daily Telegraph his body and mind were in the right shape to continue beyond his 16th season in the top grade.
"At the moment I feel good, I feel like I can keep going," Kimmorley, 33, said.
"Last year was easy. The success we had on the field and the way the club looked after everyone, made it a very enjoyable season.
"I also enjoyed the fact I knew my role, so I felt pretty fresh all year.
"At the moment I'm thinking that if I'm still this happy and excited then I'd love to play on."
Bulldogs CEO Todd Greenberg and coach Kevin Moore opened discussions about Kimmorley's future with an in-depth meeting with their halfback last month. And the incumbent NSW No. 7 said it was already understood that he won't move to a rival club should a contract extension not be forthcoming.
"If I'm not playing at the Bulldogs, I won't be playing at all," Kimmorley said.
"I'm looking forward to having just as good a year in 2010.
"Hopefully after the next 12 months I'm just as passionate that I'll be able to play football for another one, two or three years.
"I've talked to some players who've recently retired, my family and my manager.
"If I can stay at this level, then I'd be putting my hand up to go around again.
"One of the other main things I wanted to also make clear (to the Bulldogs) is that I'd like to stay involved beyond football. I want to become a coach in some capacity."
The Bulldogs have already responded to Kimmorley's post-football wish, and plan to help him complete his NRL Coaching Certificate II. In the meantime, the veteran has taken an even bigger role in mentoring the club's young halves. He works closely with Toyota Cup playmaker Rhys Jack and also supports the club's bid to sign Daniel Mortimer, who the Bulldogs view as a suitable successor to Kimmorley's No. 7 jersey.
"If we got Daniel, it would be a terrific long-term signing for the club," Kimmorley said.
"I know he's never played at the Bulldogs, but it would mean something for the family name to return.
"It would be wonderful if we could get him on board and I know Kevvy and Todd see him as a long-term No. 7."
This week's return to training has been Kimmorley's first opportunity to practise ballwork since he had surgery on his groin after last September's heart-breaking preliminary final loss to Parramatta.
