Fullback Michael Gordon yesterday announced his retirement from the NRL at the end of season 2019 and Titans TV caught up with the 35-year-old to discuss the decision, and his remarkable 14-year NRL career.
Gordon joined the Titans in 2018 from the Sydney Roosters, and in two years has been a model of consistency, professionalism and community service for all Gold Coast players to follow.
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Gordon, who turns 36 in October, has played 32 games for the Titans, after previous stints with Penrith, Cronulla, Parramatta and the Roosters. He played one State of Origin game for NSW in 2010, and three games for NSW Country (2013-2017).
“Yeah, I’m hanging them up,” Gordon said.
“Not officially though. I’ll have one more year with the Tweed Coast Raiders, and then that’ll be it.
“I was always planning on retiring (this year), but I suppose it was good to get it out there for some people and get it off the chest.”
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Gordon made his NRL debut for the Panthers in 2006, and fittingly played his 250th NRL match against Penrith in Round 5 at Cbus Super Stadium in the Titans’ 30-24 win.
“Growing up in Cabarita and then moving to Penrith was a bit of a culture shock,” he said. “But Penrith was still a big country town back then, so I fit in ok.
“I really tried to buy-in to everywhere I went, and fully immerse myself in the club,s and I think that’s the only way you can get the best out of yourself.”
And what did he love most about his time in the game?
“Probably just that I did get to play for different clubs, different players, different coaches,” he said. “I love every club, the support staff you meet.
“I love hearing everyone’s stories. It’s been a hell of a ride, and something I can look back and be proud of.”