Sam Thaiday announces retirement in fascinating fashion

Josh McAllister

Brisbane Broncos forward Sam Thaiday has announced he will retire at the end of the current season…dressed as an older version of himself.

In an extraordinary fashion, Thaiday dressed as himself in 40-years time and announced he will be retiring from the sport at the end of the current campaign.

“To be honest this is a true reflection of how I’ve been feeling over the last couple of seasons. I feel old, sore, tired and definitely balding,” Thaiday told the media.

“I’ve been different throughout my whole career in everything I’ve done. This is a fantastic way of everyone to remember me. If you don’t remember my incredible rugby league resume, I’m sure you’ll remember the weird football guy who dressed up as an old man to retire.”

Thaiday was a part of the 2006 NRL Grand Final winning Brisbane Broncos side, starting in the second row as they defeated Melbourne Storm 15-8.

The forward has also represented Australia and made close to 30 appearances for Queensland in his 16-year-long career and won the NRL Dally M Second Rower of the Year in both 2010 and 2011.

“I’ve been very lucky. I was a young kid that played rugby league because I loved it,” Thaiday added,

“I grew into a man that played rugby league and continued to play rugby league because I loved it.

“Next week, Wednesday July 11th will be 15 years since I debuted. This is my 16th season and I think it’s kind of come time for me to move aside and let some of these young guys come through and shine.

“I want to thank everyone for their support. I think we’re sitting in a great position at the moment and if we want to do something as a team the time is now.”

 

NRL Brisbane Broncos