BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 20: Matt Gillett of the Broncos looks to pass during the round 20 NRL match between the Brisbane Broncos and the Canterbury Bulldogs at Suncorp Stadium on July 20, 2017 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)
Broncos great Matt Gillett has announced his retirement effective immediately.
The veteran suffered a shoulder injury late in the 2019 and had to walk away from the game on medical grounds.
Over his stellar 200-game career Gillett was named Dally M Second Rower Of The Year in 2016 and 2017, and Dally M Rookie Of The Year in 2010.
The 31-year old told broncos.com.au: “This has been a huge shock to me and my family, and we have taken time over recent weeks to consider what we should do. I have decided to take the medical advice from the experts and call time on my career.
“I have plenty to be thankful for – I have been part of a great club here at the Broncos for my whole career. I’ve played for my state and for my country with some legends of the game.
“While today is really hard, I know that I can look back over my career and be thankful for what I’ve been able to achieve and the friends I have made over the journey. I’d like to thank my teammates, coaches, family and friends for all their help and support over the years.”
Broncos coach Anthony Seibold applauded Gillett for all he has given to the game.
“He is humble and hard-working and has reached the top of the game for Australia all the way from his beginnings at Bribie island.
“His achievements on the field are well known but we are most proud of him for how he conducts himself off the field, and how highly he values his family and friends.”
Gillett will remain at the Broncos in an off-field role.