Steve Menzies to play on in 2013

Veteran back-rower Steve Menzies is to play on in 2013 after signing a new deal at Catalan.

Menzies, 38, will go in to his 21st season at the highest level, and is currently nine games short of 100 appearances in Super League.

He said: “This is a decision we have matured as a family. My wife and my children enjoy life here and it counted in my decision to stay in France.

“I feel good physically, and ready for a new season of Super League. I really wanted to be 100% to be competitive at the highest level next season. I did not rush to make this decision because I do not want to make the season too. 

“My motivation and love for this sport are intact, I’m still as much fun to play and it is the most important.”

Menzies came to Super League in 2009 with Bradford from NRL club Manly, where he had spent his entire career Down Under, making more than 300 appearances.

After the Bulls opted not to renew his contract for the 2011 season, he moved on to Catalan.

Dragons president Bernard Guasch said: “This is an example for his teammates and for all young people who grow back. It is a valuable player on a team, especially compared to what he teaches, and is released. 

“It is true that it is a gamble but it is rarely missed us and given its performance over the past two seasons, he showed he was still among the best.”

A veteran of 20 State of Origin games for New South Wales, Menzies also represented the Exiles against England in this season’s International Origin.