Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Captain Josh Jackson has today announced that he will retire from professional rugby league.

The decision comes just two years into a three-year contract extension amidst much speculation over the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs’ official squad for 2023. Jackson now officially ruling himself out as he chooses to step away from the squad and focus on life after footy with his family.

Whilst he won’t join the team under Ciraldo’s care in 2023, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and class both on and off the football field.

“Josh has long been at the heart of the Bulldogs,” said Bulldogs Rugby League Football Club Chairman John Khoury.

“He has led this great Club with pride. He has bled blue and white, and played for his state and for his country.

“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.

“We cannot thank him enough for everything he has done for our Club, but now it is time to reflect on and celebrate his wonderful career.”

The hard-working second rower is part of an exclusive group, inclusive of Hazem El Masri, Steve Mortimer, Terry Lamb, Chris Anderson, Andrew Ryan, and Aiden Tolman, who have each pulled on the blue and white jersey on more than 200 occasions.

He has played 11 seasons of top-flight rugby league for the Bulldogs (2012-22), running out on 241 occasions and scoring 24 tries throughout his decorated career.

On top of his appearances at the club level, the 31-year-old has also represented his state and country, collected the Brad Fittler Medal, been named Dally M Second Rower of the Year on two occasions, won the Provan Summons Medal (2019), and has been an inspiring captain to the Club that gave him the opportunity to live out a childhood dream.

Jackson, who hails from Gulgong, NSW, first made his NRL debut in round 16 of 2012 for the Belmore-based Club and has remained a loyal member of the Bulldogs team since.

He was a member of the 2014 NRL grand final team and was appointed Captain of the Club in an emotional announcement during the pre-season of 2018, following the departure of fellow Bulldogs great, James Graham.

Since 2018, he has captained the team through some tough times and earned great respect as a leader in the game.

“Josh has always epitomised what this Club is about. He’s tough. He’s resilient. He leaves everything on the footy field,” said the 2022 Interim Head Coach and recently announced, Assistant Coach for 2023, Mick Potter.

“He is and always will be, the epitome of a Bulldog,” he added.

“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”.