Super League and Hull KR star Shaun Kenny-Dowall has confirmed he retire at the end of this season and take on a role among the coaching staff.
There had been talk that he could link up with the man who brought him to Super League Tony Smith across the river at Hull FC.
Smith himself said he would only pursue this if SKD himself had pursued this.
Fans feared the worst when it was reported that the centre / winger hadn’t been offered a new deal but it now seems that it was his decision to retire.
It seems Hull KR have already replaced him for 2024.
In Tom Opacic they have one of the signings of the season meanwhile they are expected to sign former Wigan Warriors centre Oliver Gildart from NRL club The Dolphins in 2024.
They have already confirmed the signing of former Warrington Wolves star Peta Hiku from the North Queensland Cowboys.
He is expected to replace star fullback and former Super League Champion with St Helens Lachlan Coote at fullback in 2024 as he also retires.
Speaking on his retirement and new role for 2024, Shaun spoke of his gratitude to the sport while outlining his excitement for his new coaching role with the club in 2024: ‘I’ve made the decision to retire at the end of the 2023 season and call time on my 17-year career as a professional rugby player.
‘This sport has given me everything and I want to say thank you to everyone who has helped me on this journey. I’ll reflect on it all at the end of the season.
‘Until then though, it’s all to play for. I’ll continue to love every moment I have left on the field as a Robin.
‘For 2024, I’m honoured to be taking on a new exciting challenge here at Hull KR, mentoring the club’s future stars from the Academy up to the First Team.
‘I’m incredibly grateful to be staying with this great club for 2024. I’d like to say a special thank you to the club’s board and Willie Peters for the opportunity and the faith they’ve shown in me for my new exciting role.
‘But for now, I want to finish my final season on a high and win silverware with this great club.
‘Keep your amazing support coming, Red Army. See you on the other side.
SKD.’
Hull KR Head Coach. Willie Peters said: ‘Shaun is a leader of men. He leads through his actions every day at training and every time he takes the field.
‘I value my relationship with Shaun greatly and he’s been a great help since I joined the club last year. I’m excited to work side by side with Shaun as part of the club’s coaching team next season.
‘We are delighted Shaun has accepted a very important position as Development Coach at Hull KR next season.
‘Shaun will play an integral part in our vertical alignment throughout the whole club. Shaun will help the club to develop quality, homegrown juniors ready for Super League alongside our Academy staff.
‘Special thank you to our Board for approving this important role within the club.
‘Before he starts, Shaun has a lot more to achieve on the field as he’s motivated to end his outstanding playing career on a high.’
