Civoniceva calls it quits

Correspondent

Brisbane, Queensland and Australia legend Petero Civoniceva will retire at the end of the current season.

But the 36-year-old prop wants to represent Queensland one last time before calling time on his career.

“It’s a decision that’s been hanging over my head for a little while now,” Civoniceva told the club website.

“I’m grateful for the club for allowing me the opportunity to come back to play in these (Broncos) colours.

“I’ve had such a great history here previously before I left for the Panthers.

“You like to think you can keep going on forever, but I think the time is right for me to step into the next stage of my life,” he said.

Civoniceva spent ten seasons with the Broncos before joining Penrith for a three year stint.

However he opted to finish his career by returning to Red Hill one a one-year deal last year.

He has also made himself available for Queensland Origin duty.

Broncos head coach Anthony Griffin said Civoniceva is still performing his well, despite his advanced years.

“He’s doing a terrific job for us at the moment,” said Griffin.

“It’s important now that Pet’s made that decision, (we will) not so much talk about it anymore, but get on with it on the field and try to make it a good year for him.”