10 May 2023 , 17:53
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Hull KR star Lachlan Coote has come to the “tough” decision to retire at the end of the season.
The gifted Australian full-back, 33, won three successive Super League Grand Finals with St Helens having also tasted NRL glory with North Queensland Cowboys. He joined the Robins from Saints ahead of last season and will hope to bow out a winner again with the East Yorkshire club now pushing for silverware on both fronts.
Coote, who hasn’t been offered a new deal for 2024, is currently out of action for a month after tearing a hamstring in Friday’s win over Huddersfield - a sixth straight victory for Willie Peters’ side.
Having also represented Scotland and Great Britain, he said: “I’m happy to announce that I will be retiring at the end of the 2023 season. It has been a very tough decision to make but I know it’s the right one for me and my family.
Over the past 15 years, I have met so many great people and I’ve learned so many valuable lessons within the sport. I’ll always be grateful for what rugby league has given me. Thank you to everyone that has been a part of my career.
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“There will be plenty of time to reflect on my career at the end of the season. There’s still a long way to go this season. I’ll be looking to make the most of every moment and finish this year with a trophy. Up the Robins.”
Peters added: “Lachlan is a proven winner and a quality person. He has won competitions in both the Super League and NRL and has been a standout performer in both competitions. His professionalism and leadership qualities are right up there with the best. I have no doubt whatever Lachlan decides to do post-rugby, it will be a success.
Lachlan Coote of Hull Kingston Rovers in action"We have unfinished business and plenty to look forward to before Lachlan hangs up his boots at the end of the season. On behalf of the club I would like to wish Lachlan, Laura, Bailey and Mia all the very best for when they return to Australia.”
Hull KR chief executive Paul Lakin said: ‘Lachlan (Coote) is rightly regarded as one of the best overseas recruits Super League has seen. “As a serial winner, Lachlan has made such a positive impact at Hull KR as a player, leader and person. There are no doubts Lachlan wants to finish his career on a high.”