SAM Thaiday has today confirmed 2018 will be his last season in the NRL – and he has done it in his own individual way.
Thaiday today did a community visit to a Wesley Mission Queensland retirement village, Wheller On The Park, in the Brisbane suburb of Chermside.
While there he took the opportunity to formally announce his retirement from the game, effective at the end of this season.
And always one to make light of himself, the Broncos' forward dressed up as Sam Thaiday in 40 years' time.
In a wig and make up, Thaiday came out to front the press and confirm his glittering rugby league career was coming to a close.
Afterwards he spent time with the village residents, who are keen rugby league fans who have a footy tipping competition with over 200 members.
After nearly 300 NRL games, 29 Origin matches and 32 Tests for the Kangaroos, the next chapter of Thaiday's professional life beckons.
As does more time with his family - wife Rachel and daughters Gracie and Ellsie.
"I've always been a bit different in everything I've done - but I've always been true to myself and done things my way," said Thaiday.
"So this is my way of being remembered.
"Because if you don't remember my incredible rugby league resume, how are you going to forget that footy player that announced his retirement dressed up as himself as an old man?
"I've been lucky enough to be a Bronco for 16 seasons, and played for my State and my country.
"I've seen the game change – from 12 to eight interchanges, from one to two referees, to the bunker, live streaming, and the effect of social media.
"I'm definitely one of the lucky ones who has turned a fun game I played as a kid into a job I love as an adult.
"But my time has come.
"Thank you all for the support throughout my career thus far, and of course for the rest of the season."
