Orr to retire at seasons end

by NRL

captain Danny Orr has confirmed that he is to retire from playing at the end of the season.

The 34-year-old made his first team debut for Castleford, his hometown team, in 1997. After the conclusion of his sixteen-year career in Super League, in which he has also played for Wigan (2004-2006) and London (2007-2010), he will take up the role of assistant coach with the Tigers alongside fellow assistant Stuart Donlan and head coach Ian Millward.

On making the decision to retire Danny said:

"I feel as though physically I could do another year, but a coaching opportunity has come about and it is something I want to take up. There aren't mot many coaching jobs in Super League and I felt if I didn't take it now the opportunity may not be there in 12 months time.

"I'll miss playing, I'm bound to. Though retirement happens to every player at the end of the day and I've achieved more things in my career than I could ever imagine.

"I've enjoyed every minute; I've been very lucky and very fortunate to play for three fantastic clubs and to be a professional Rugby player for so long, at such a high level. All of the supporters at Cas, Wigan and London have been fantastic with me and I'm grateful for their support over the years.

"I'd like to say thank you to anyone who has been involved in my career, I've made some fantastic friendships and memories that will stay with me forever.

"Cas has always been my team since being a 7-year-old boy and this is where it all started for me and it is nice that this is where it will finish.

"I'll finish playing at the end of the year, but I'll still be around the lads working more alongside the younger players and trying to develop them. I love helping to make people become better players and I'm glad this opportunity has come with Cas.

Head coach Ian Milward said:

"Danny has been a good servant to Rugby League and to Castleford. He's a good clean natured guy and a local boy with great pedigree. He has a passion to remain involved in Rugby League and I'm pleased he will come onto our coaching staff, assisting myself and Stuart Donlan; it will be a good starting point for him."

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