True Blue Josh Jackson, who is one of only seven Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs players to pass the ‘200 Game’ mark with the club, has called it a day.
The Bulldogs announced on their website that the 31-year-old back rower would be retiring, effective immediately, despite having a year left on his contract.
Jackson won the 2016 Brad Fittler Medal as part of his nine games for the NSW Blues (2015-17) as well as two caps for Australia.
“Josh has long been at the heart of the Bulldogs,” Bulldogs Rugby League Football Club Chairman John Khoury said.
“We know this decision has not been an easy one and while it is a sad day, there is no doubt that despite not lacing up the boots and running out in 2023, he will continue to inspire the Bulldogs team and our community for many more years to come.”
Jackson took over the club captaincy in 2018 with the departure of James Graham to the St George Illawarra Dragons.
He is one of an exclusive group at the Bulldogs – players who wore the blue and white on more than 200 occasions: Hazem El Masri, Steve Mortimer, Terry Lamb, Chris Anderson, Andrew Ryan, and Aiden Tolman.
Jackson played 241 games and scored 24 tries for the Bulldogs (2012-2022) and was Dally M Second Rower of the Year twice.
“Josh has always epitomised what this club is about. He’s tough. He’s resilient. He leaves everything on the footy field,” Interim Head Coach and recently announced, Assistant Coach for 2023, Mick Potter said.
“He is and always will be, the epitome of a Bulldog.
“His efforts and professionalism are unparalleled, and it will be hard to fill that void in the team.
“Josh’s actions have always been about doing the best for the team and the club, and that is what he has done.”
