You are in > manchester.com  > News > Dragons skipper Jones to retire

Rugby League

Dragons skipper Jones to retire

07/09/2007

Catalans Dragons captain Stacey Jones has announced he will retire from rugby league at the end of the 2007 Super League season.

The New Zealander is regarded as one of the game's modern-day greats after a glittering international career with the Kiwis and with former club Auckland Warriors.

He left the club to join Catalans Dragons in their inaugural season and lead the Perpignan club to a maiden Challenge Cup final this season, which they ultimately lost to reigning Super League champions St Helens.

The 31-year-old was also made an officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to rugby league two years ago but will hang up his boots after the Dragons' final match of this year's Super League at home to Harlequins.

"I have decided to finish my football career at the end of the season," he said.

"I had a couple of bad injuries during the last two seasons and I think my body has had enough.

"My on-field performance was up and down this year and I think it is the best solution for the team."

Despite these injuries, which included a broken arm in 2005 and a knee injury at the start of this campaign, Jones has made 43 appearances and scored 122 points for the club.

"I prefer to quit at the end of the season than retiring after two or three games into 2008 which will not be fair for the team, which will be even better next year," he continued.

"It was a difficult decision to take and I will miss the place. I had two wonderful years with the Catalans Dragons and being at Wembley was a dream.

"I want to thank the club and all the fans who have been so good for me and my family. I have no concrete options for my future and I will take my time to take the right decision."

Head coach Mick Potter added: "Stacey has helped to build the club during his two seasons with Catalans Dragons. He has always been a champion and did not want let down his level of performance.

"It is probably the toughest decision he has made in his life but Stacey has been one of the greatest rugby league ambassadors all over the world.

"I wish him and his family all the best for his future and we will sadly miss him.

"There are potential candidates to replace him but no decision will be made short time since you can not replace Stacey Jones."