Ex-Kangaroo Timmins Retires

Dragons veteran Shaun Timmins has today officially announced his retirement from rugby league on medical advice.

Timmins, 30, today visited a knee specialist who advised the local junior that his chronic knee problems would further impact his general well-being if he was to continue training and playing rugby league.

“It is very sad to think that I will not be playing rugby league anymore,” said Timmins. “Rugby League, the Steelers and the Dragons have been such a big part of my life and it is somewhat difficult to contemplate life without them.

“But I have to be thankful for the times and opportunities that I have had and would like to thank everyone at both the Steelers and the Dragons with whom I have been associated throughout my career,” added Timmins

“I would have liked to think that I could play on, but with each year it has become increasingly difficult and I also don’t think that I could ever play against the Dragons,” said Timmins.

Dragons Coach Nathan Brown is disappointed for his talented player, team-mate and friend but understands and wishes him well.

“Reaching the end of your playing career is not an easy thing for any player,” said Brown. “Timmo is a great all-round player and guy who has given his all to rugby league.

“He was a rare player with special qualities that not everyone is fortunate to possess,” added Brown. “His contributions to our Club have been enormous and I join with many in congratulating him on his outstanding career. Dragons Chief Executive Officer Peter Doust paid tribute to Timmins and thanked him for his contributions to the Dragons.

“Shaun Timmins has been an outstanding player and contributor to both our Club and the game of rugby league,” said Doust. “His individual representative achievements are testament to his ability and work ethic.

“He has been a fine ambassador for our region and fantastic role model to aspiring league players in our region,” added Doust. “But above all he has been a great friend to all and a true character that certainly won’t be forgotten.

The Kiama junior has had a long and successful career beginning with the Steelers in 1992. Timmins made his first grade debut for the Steelers against in Sharks in Round 18 of the 1994 season, going on to play 86 games for the Club.

The former Australian representative formed part of the inaugural St George Illawarra Dragons in 1999 and has played 124 games since this time. Throughout his career Timmins played 210 first grade games, scored 55 tries, kicked 11 goals and one field totaling 255 points.

In the same year (1999) Timmins made his debut for Australia, representing his country on eight occasions. NSW Origin selection came the following year and he played nine games over the next four years. Timmins also represented Country on one occasion in 2003.