Wigan captain Sean O'Loughlin to retire after illustrious 19-year career
Wigan Warriors captain Sean O'Loughlin has announced he is to call time on his 19-year career at the club.
The one-club former England skipper, who made his debut for his hometown club in April 2002, is hoping to add two more appearances to the 457 he has already made for the Warriors before hanging up his boots and joining their coaching staff.
O'Loughlin, who has made only six appearances this season, is targeting a return to the Wigan team for next Thursday's Super League play-off semi-final against Hull before celebrating his 38th birthday five days later.
The Grand Final is on November 27.
O'Loughlin said: I've always known it would be a difficult decision because it's something you love doing. To not be able to do that going forward is pretty difficult to take.
I've loved every minute of it. Even seasons when we've not won trophies, I've enjoyed playing. The reason you start playing as a kid is because you enjoy it and I don't think I've ever lost that enjoyment.
"It's got more difficult as you get older but the enjoyment is still there."
O'Loughlin, brother-in-law of another illustrious Wigan loose forward Andy Farrell and uncle of England RU captain Owen Farrell, was made Wigan captain at the age of 24 in 2006 and led them to the first of 10 major trophies four years later.
Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan, who says the player will be entered into the club's Hall of Fame, added:
"Sean O'Loughlin will go down as one of the greatest players to have represented Wigan Warriors Rugby League Club."
Sean has played his entire rugby league career at Wigan and sits seventh on the all-time Wigan appearances-made list. His leadership qualities and loyalty are legendary.
To spend 19 years at his hometown club and claim the honours he has won underpins what he is all about. He is a true Wiganer, an outstanding Warrior and a born winner.''
O'Loughlin won 11 caps for Great Britain from 2004-7 and 25 for England, including 14 as captain.