Carmont - No going back

George Carmont: Will wave goodbye to Super League at the end of the season

Wigan centre George Carmont has re-iterated his intention to retire at the end of the season despite being selected in the 2012 Stobart Super League Dream Team.

The 34-year-old Samoan international was selected for the third time in five years in the prestigious mythical team after another impressive season for Shaun Wane's table-toppers.

He had planned to hang up his boots 12 months ago before being persuaded to play on but this time he says there is no going back on his decision, despite the offer of a new contract from the Warriors.

Instead, Carmont will retire and return to Auckland with his partner and five children, the youngest of whom was born in England.

"I've been away from home for 10 years now and I've got to think about my kids and put their interests before mine," he said.

Tough

"It's been tough on my parents not being able to see them grow up. That's another reason why we're heading back.

"I know I've been saying it for the last couple of years but this year it's a bit different to the way I was feeling last year.

"Twelve months ago I wasn't sure whether the club would want to keep me so, when they did ask me, I was pretty happy and I just had to tell my kids and my partner that we were going to delay the move.

"This year feels different, it's like it's time to go home. I have been asked to stay on but I'd rather finish the game one season too early than stay on one season too long."
George Carmont Quotes of the week

"This year feels different, it's like it's time to go home. I have been asked to stay on but I'd rather finish the game one season too early than stay on one season too long.

"I'm more focused on going home. I think it's the right decision and it would be nice if I could go out on a high."

Shocked

Carmont, who is hoping to return to Old Trafford to make his farewell appearance in the Grand Final on October 6, is one of six Wigan players named in the prestigious mythical team.

He admitted he was shocked to be named in the Dream Team, especially ahead of his club centre partner Darrell Goulding.

"I'd have him in the side ahead of me," he said. "He's a big part of what we're doing this year. He's performed every week this year. It's hard to miss out.

"I'm still surprised I made it this year, like I was every other year. I'm definitely happy to get selected in the team, it's a big honour.

"I've got good players around me - people like Gaz Hock, Paddy Richards and Brett Finch - and they make my job a lot easier. I'm glad that they're in my side."