SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 10: Cooper Cronk of the Roosters thanks fans after winning the round 22 NRL match between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Sydney Roosters at ANZ Stadium on August 10, 2018 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
Sydney Roosters veteran Cooper Cronk has announced his NRL retirement this morning.
The Roosters called for a press conference on Monday morning to announce the news.
“I have never seen anybody like Cooper Cronk in our game," Roosters Chairman Nick Politis told reporters.
“Cooper is a tremendous individual and I would like to thank him for his incredible leadership, professionalism and insurmountable contribution to not only our proud Club, but the game of rugby league. We will always be very proud to call Cooper a Rooster."
Roosters coach Trent Robinson praised Cronk for all he has given to the game.
“Knowing Cooper, he won’t be too comfortable with these accolades and will be of the view that he still has a job to do, but it’s important we pause to acknowledge his achievements over the years,” Robinson said.
“The records will show that Cooper was only with our Club for two years, but it speaks volumes of his character that his place in the history of our Club is assured.
“Cooper is a man of high integrity, and his professional approach to his training, playing and recovery is testament to the character he is.
“He has driven success here at the Roosters, and throughout his career. He has been a remarkable achiever at both Club and representative level. Significantly, he has also made those around him better, both on and off the field.
“Looking ahead, on behalf of the playing group and everyone at the Club, we wish Cooper and his family all the very best for the next chapter of their lives, but in the short-term, we look forward to seeing out the season together."
The 35-year old began his career in 2004 at the Melbourne Storm before crossing to Sydney in 2018.
Highlights of Cronk's career include five Dally M halfback of the year awards, two Dally Ms and premiership triumphs with the Storm in 2017 and Roosters in 2018.
He played in a total of seven NRL grand finals, claiming three titles.
Additionally, Cronk represented Queensland at Origin level in 22 games and Australia 38 times.