Bradford Bulls prop forward Joe Vagana has announced his decision to retire at the end of the season.
Bulls forward to finish career at Odsal
Bradford Bulls prop forward Joe Vagana has announced his decision to retire at the end of the season.
The 33-year-old New Zealander put off retirement a year ago, and, after recovering from a broken arm this season, has rolled back the years to produce some inspirational displays for the Bulls.
However, despite his impressive form, Vagana, who has played 239 times for the Bulls since joining them from Auckland Warriors, has decided to hang up his boots and will make his farewell appearance against Hull KR at Odsal on August 25.
"For a player it's always hard to say when, but I think the time is right for me now to make the ultimate decision," he said.
"I have been at Bradford for eight years and a professional for 15 and I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it, but the old body is telling me to give it away.
"We have some great players coming through here - players like Sam Burgess, Andy Lynch and Koppy (Craig Kopczak) - and I just feel the time is right to hang up my boots and enjoy the game from the sidelines."
McNamara praise
Vagana made 16 appearances for New Zealand, including the 2000 World Cup final, and appeared in seven major finals and three World Club Challenges for his club.
Bradford coach Steve McNamara said: "Joe has probably been up there with Robbie Paul as the most significant overseas signing the club has ever made.
"In terms of overall contributions to the club both on and off the field, his presence is simply immense and there will be a whole host of players who will be glad to see the back of Joe Vagana, so they don't have to play against him.
"He will be a great loss to the club on the field and also off it because of the sheer amount of work he has done for the club in that area.
"He has been a tremendous ambassador for rugby league and for Bradford Bulls and for me personally - getting my first head coach's job - he has been a vital part of what I have done."
