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Matthew Rodwell
Newcastle Knights International, Matthew Gidley has announced his intention to retire from representative football, requesting exemption from the Australian Rugby League today.
Gidley recently celebrated his 200th First Grade game for the Newcastle Knights and says club and family commitments have played a big role in his decision.
“It’s been an unforgettable journey, to play for your country is a privilege,†Gidley said.
“But I think you have to be realistic and know when it’s time to make way for the game’s future.â€
In 10 years at the elite level, Gidley has played 11 Tests including the 2000 World Cup and the 2001 Kangaroo Tour, made 11 State of Origin appearances for New South Wales and represented New South Wales Country.
“The club has been very good to me over the last decade, he said.â€
“I’ve spent a lot of time away on representative duties so it’s my turn to return the favour and commit to club football. As we near the end of our careers, I think it’s important senior players like myself are around to guide the young blokes in the right direction.â€
A local talent, Gidley played his junior football with Wests and made his Knights First Grade debut against Balmain in April 1996. In the last decade, he’s earnt a reputation as the ultimate club man and is a local favourite among Novocastrian football fans.
We welcome Matthew’s decision with open arms,†said Knights CEO Ken Conway.
“It’s admirable that Matthew has decided to make the club’s interests a priority and we are extremly proud of his representative achievements.â€
Gidley recently celebrated his 200th First Grade game for the Newcastle Knights and says club and family commitments have played a big role in his decision.
“It’s been an unforgettable journey, to play for your country is a privilege,†Gidley said.
“But I think you have to be realistic and know when it’s time to make way for the game’s future.â€
In 10 years at the elite level, Gidley has played 11 Tests including the 2000 World Cup and the 2001 Kangaroo Tour, made 11 State of Origin appearances for New South Wales and represented New South Wales Country.
“The club has been very good to me over the last decade, he said.â€
“I’ve spent a lot of time away on representative duties so it’s my turn to return the favour and commit to club football. As we near the end of our careers, I think it’s important senior players like myself are around to guide the young blokes in the right direction.â€
A local talent, Gidley played his junior football with Wests and made his Knights First Grade debut against Balmain in April 1996. In the last decade, he’s earnt a reputation as the ultimate club man and is a local favourite among Novocastrian football fans.
We welcome Matthew’s decision with open arms,†said Knights CEO Ken Conway.
“It’s admirable that Matthew has decided to make the club’s interests a priority and we are extremly proud of his representative achievements.â€
