TWO-times Grand Final winner Zeb Taia has written about his gratitude after officially bringing an end to his glittering playing career.
Taia, who flew back to Australia this week after a three-and-a-half-year stint in St Helens, has been a hugely popular player in both rugby league hemispheres.
The 36-year-old second row, who Saints recruited from Gold Coast Titans in an effective swap deal for Joe Greenwood, announced his retirement on his own social media.
He posted on his Instagram page: “It is time to put some closure on the career.
“When you first start out and you think I’d be happy just to play one game but to make it your profession for 14 years is an achievement that I will always be grateful for.”
“Just want to say huge thanks to the five clubs that I’ve been a part of.
“I started the journey with my debut in 2006 with Parramatta Eels and became a first grader at the Newcastle Knights, decided to learn French and explore Europe with Catalans, then came back for another crack at the NRL with Titans and of course finished off with the Saints.
“Huge thanks to everyone that’s helped me along the way.. to all the coaches and players at every club, it’s been an unreal journey to meet so many people and a lot of you I call my best mates.
“I need to thank my beautiful wife Nikki - she’s been the rock of this whole journey and the sacrifices she’s made to keep this dream going has been a understatement.
"We’ve created memories that will last a lifetime and of course our three beautiful girls who were all born in different countries.”
Pictures copyright: Bernard Platt
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