Leuluai to finish career with Rhinos

Leeds prop Kylie Leuluai has confirmd that he will retire at the end of the 2012 season after agreeing a new one year contract with the Rhinos.

The Samoan International has been in excellent form this season, however has confirmed that next season, his 13th as a professional, will be his last.

Leuluai commented “I am very pleased to be signing for another year as I never considered playing for any other club. Having been here for five years, Leeds has been a wonderful part of mine and my families lives.

“I have enjoyed my rugby this season but there are still things I want to achieve here with the Rhinos. At 33, I know there are some people who will question whether I can continue to produce my best but if I did not believe I could still make a massive contribution to the club then I would not have signed.

“Next year will definitely be my last year as I have other interests I am looking to pursue after rugby however I want to go out on a high with a big eighteen months ahead of us.”

Heah coach Brian McDermott stated: “Kylie deserves this new deal because of what he has done constantly throughout this season. This is not based on what he has done in the past but on what he is doing right now.

“He is the ultimate professional who knows how to look after his body and lives the right lifestyle which means his age is not a barrier to him being successful on the field. He is tough and a formidable player within our game.”

Leuluai joined the Rhinos from Manly Sea Eages in 2007, and has gone on to make 140 appearances for the club, including featuring in all three Grand Finals between 2007 and 2009. The block-bustering prop made his first grade debut in 1999 for Balmain Tigers and has had spells with Wests Tigers, Sydney Roosters and Parramatta.