Super League: David Hodgson announces retirement and joins Hull KR coaching staff

Former Great Britain winger David Hodgson has retired from playing and will join Hull KR's coaching staff next season.

Hodgson scored 184 tries in 366 appearances for five Super League clubs during a 15-year professional career but has decided to retire after suffering a neck injury in July.

It's a new start for the club and a lot of new lads are coming in so it's an exciting time to be joining the coaching staff.

The 33-year-old has been appointed as an assistant coach after signing a two-year contract with the Robins.

"It's a big change from what I'm used to but I'm really looking forward to it.," said Hodgson.

"It's a new start for the club and a lot of new lads are coming in so it's an exciting time to be joining the coaching staff.

"It's always hard to retire but it was made easier for me by the number of injuries I've had this year. I damaged my neck towards the back end of the season and I felt my body was telling me to call it a day.

"To be offered an assistant coaching role was a bit of a surprise but I'm keen to get stuck in."

Grand Final appearances

Hull-born Hodgson made 53 appearances after joining the Robins in 2012 and also played for Halifax, Wigan, Salford and Huddersfield in a career that included two Grand Finals with the Warriors.

Hull KR head coach Chris Chester, who has also brought in Willie Poching from Warrington as an assistant, said: "Although it is never easy to make the decision to retire, I'm really pleased Dave will be staying at the club in 2015 as part of the coaching staff.

"It is really important for the club moving forwards that we hold on to players of his calibre and tap into their knowledge and experience. He has played at the highest level for a long period of time and has been a real professional both on and off the field."

Stanley Gene recently left Hull KR as assistant coach, and is expected to take up a full-time role with Championship One club Gateshead.