Veteran forward Jacob Lillyman will call time on his NRL career at the end of the 2018 season.



At the age of 34, Lillyman is in his 16th season in first grade with his first year at the nib Newcastle Knights set to be his only season.



While his time at the Club has been short, his impact will be felt for years to come.



"I've had an incredible career. I have no regrets," Lillyman said.





Lillyman announces retirement



"I have some many fond memories from every Club I've had the pleasure to play for. I was fortunate to represent my state and make some incredible friendships along the way.



"I can't thank my family enough for all their support. It's been one incredible journey."



Lillyman has enjoyed a storied career which began with North Queensland.



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A product of Richmond, a small town in western Queensland, Lillyman played his way through the lower grades at the Cowboys before making his debut against the Knights in 2003 where he played three games in his rookie season.



The following year he was a regular member of the Cowboys team and would consistently feature for the Cowboys over the next four seasons.



It was during this time, in 2006, that he earned his first State of Origin jersey for Queensland.







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"I came to the decision quite a while ago. The mind and the body reach appoint where going another year isn't an option and it's been a bit of a battle this year," Lillyman said.



"I'm grateful for the opportunity to play for this great Club but at the end of the year, I'm riding off into the sunset."



Moving to New Zealand Warriors in 2009, Lillyman found his best form in Auckland.



He spent nine seasons across the Tasman and maintained his position as a Maroon whether it was in the backrow or middle.



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In his swansong season in the NRL, Lillyman joined the Knights, acting as a mentor to some of the Club's most exciting young prospects.



"Not only is Ox a professional on the field, he's a champion person off it," Coach Nathan Brown said.



"He's a consistent performer, so it's no surprise he had such a long career in the Queensland jersey.



"The influence he's had on our younger boys has been enormous.



"He's brought some quality habits to the Club which will pay dividends in years to come."





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Jacob Lillyman



Date of birth: March 7, 1984

Junior club: Richmond Tigers

Previous clubs: North Queensland Cowboys, New Zealand Warriors

Games: 62 for Cowboys, 188 for Warriors, 15 for Knights *

Tries: Nine

Rep honours: 14 State of Origin games for Queensland





