A statement from Thomas Leuluai

Thomas Leuluai has written the following statement on his announcement that he will retire as a Rugby League professional at the end of the 2022 season and become Warriors Assistant Coach for 2023 and beyond.

I honestly don’t know where to start. 

It’s been an incredible journey, back in 2003 when I made my debut for the New Zealand Warriors, I never thought I’d be writing this 20 years later. 

When players and teammates around me retired, I often wondered how they knew it was the right time to do so, but I can honestly say I feel so content with my own decision and it’s true what they say, you know when it’s time. 

I look back throughout the years and I just feel incredibly grateful for everything that Rugby League has given me. There have been wonderful times on the field, and amazing times off it. I’ve loved them all but without a doubt the best thing Rugby League has given me is the friendships I have made. 

There are so many people I need to thank, I really want to thank them personally and will do so over the next couple of weeks but to all the coaches, trainers, physios, doctors and office staff that have helped me along my journey, thank you so much. To all the fans of all the clubs I have been at, thank you. 

I have to give special mention to the Wigan fans that have taken me in like one of their own, you are what make this Club such a special team to play for, it has been a privilege to represent your team and your town. 

To all my teammates I can’t thank you enough – I’ve loved going to battle alongside you all. I’ve also loved all the great times we have had off the field, there are so many great memories that I will forever cherish. 

Last but definitely not least to my family, my Mum, Lenore and my dad, James, thank you for your endless support and guidance, especially my dad who I have looked up to my entire life. To my siblings, Folole, Macgraff, Ruvea, thanks for always having my back through the highs and the lows. I appreciate you guys. To all my aunties, uncles and cousins, there are too many to name, thanks so much for the support, I’ve always tried to represent our family to the best that I can. Special mention to my cousin Kylie, who has always been such a great role model for me throughout my career. Also, to my manager, Peter Brown, who has been with me the entire way. Which leads me to my wife, Natalie, I can’t thank enough for everything you have done. You have made sacrifices along the way that make me forever grateful. You and our three girls, Wynter-Rose, Storm and Romi, mean the world to me and you have given my career such great balance. I can’t wait to see what the next chapter has for us.

Thanks,

Tommy.