Sims to retire

Toronto Wolfpack prop Ashton Sims has announced he will retire at the end of the season.

The 34-year-old made his debut for St George Illawarra Dragons in 2003 as a 17-year-old and has gone on to make over 350 appearances for the Dragons, Brisbane, North Queensland, Warrington and the Wolfpack.

He has also earned 12 caps for Fiji, after making his debut in the 2008 World Cup.

In a statement on Twitter, Sims wrote: “Humbled, underserving and grateful are the words that come to mind when I reflect on 17 years of professional rugby league.

“To my hometown and junior club Gerringong Lions, you taught me discipline, respect for the game and internal drive to succeed. For that I’m forever indebted to you.

“To my parents, thank you for driving manners, respect and work ethic.

“To St George Illawarra, Brisbane, Nth Qld, Warrington, Toronto and Fiji Bati you have helped turn me into the man I am today, words can’t describe the sense of pride I feel when I reflect on the times I wore your and your fans badge.

“To all the team mates and backroom staff, you’ve all made an impact in my life and I’ve got so much respect for each of you.

“I’m not the perfect person but I’m striving to be everyday for you guys. If ‘Ive inspired just one kid to play Rugby League. I’m a happy man.”

It’s been real.
It’s been emotional.
I’ve had highs & lows.
But my dreams have been exceeded.
I’ll be forever indebted to the sport. #RugbyLeague #SportChangesLives pic.twitter.com/mLXdrtUc4b

— Ashton Sims (@ashtonsims26) August 8, 2019