Salford Red Devils and ex-St Helens man announces retirement plan aged 34

Salford Red Devils forward Andrew Dixon has decided to call time on his career after 16 years as a player at the end of the season. Dixon has spent the last two years with Salford, but at the age of 34 he has decided to bring the curtain down on his career.

The forward started his career with St Helens and made his debut for the club in 2009 against Hull KR. He went to make 67 appearances for the club and managed to score a try in the 2010 Super League Grand Final.

Dixon left the Saints ahead of the 2013 season in order to link up with Salford for the first time before spells with Leigh, Toronto Wolfpack and Toulouse Olympique. He returned to Salford ahead of the 2023, 10 years after signing for the club for the first time.

He retires having made 248 appearances in the game with 63 tries coming along the way.

“After 16 unforgettable years in professional rugby league, the time has come for me to step away from the game that has given me so much,” he said in a statement published on Salford’s official channels.

“It’s been an incredible journey, playing for five amazing clubs — St Helens, Leigh, Salford, Toronto and Toulouse. Each club has left a lasting impact on my career and my life, shaping me both as a player and as a person.

“I’ve had the privilege of living out my childhood dream, competing in two grand finals, scoring in one, and achieving promotion to the Super League with three incredible clubs: Leigh, Toronto, and Toulouse.

“This decision wasn’t easy, but I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished in my career, and I’m grateful for all the memories, the friendships, and the lessons learned along the way. rugby league has been my life for so long, and while I’m stepping away from playing, I’ll always remain a part of this incredible community.”

Salford Red Devils head coach Paul Rowley added: “I would like to congratulate Dicko on a fantastic career. He’s been the ultimate pro and the best teammate from start to finish.

“On behalf of the club, he’s always welcome back, but on a personal note he is more than just a player, he’s a loyal and trusted friend that I’ve had the good fortune of sharing many great times with.

“Our friendship is one built from a mutual respect and honesty and as always, this is the best bit about rugby league – the people you meet and the memories you make. In the words of our friend Adam Sidlow, ‘blessed’”