By Melissa Tabet / Tigers
Brisbane Tigers hooker Hugh Pratt has officially announced his retirement from rugby league.
The Marist Brothers Rams junior joined the Tigers for the 2021 season after having played 50 Intrust Super Cup games for the Redcliffe Dolphins from 2017 to 2019.
Player number 1361, 25-year old Pratt managed to play four games for the Tigers, making his debut against his former club in Round 7 of the Intrust Super Cup.
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Surrounded by his teammates at the club’s 2021 Awards Night, Tigers Captain (Darren Nicholls) announced to the room of Pratt’s decision due to medical reasons.
“Obviously a bitter pill to swallow having to give it away through injury…especially as though I feel like I have a bit to offer still,” said Pratt.
“Just wanted to thank everyone who has helped me along the way and who has contributed to my career along the way. All coaches, teammates, officials, my family and partner.
“I’ve been very fortunate to be surrounded by good people and teammates. I’ve been an average player carried in a good team more times than I can count.
“Also would like to thank the Tigers. They’ve been unreal in a tough year for myself, and I can’t thank them enough for that support. They are such a professional club that really cares for their players and staff.
“Obviously the emotions that come with winning and competing as part of a team are hard to replicate.
“I think the friendships I’ve made throughout my career is what I’m grateful for most. They go beyond any trophy and will last a lifetime,” he added.
Pratt played in the 2015 Holden Cup Grand Final for the Sea Eagles in a team which consisted of Tom Trbojevic, Jesse Ramien, Liam Knight, Luke Garner and Nicho Hynes.
He also won the 2018 Queensland Cup grand final with his former club the Dolphins, which coincidentally was against the Tigers.
Brisbane Tigers Head Coach Jon Buchanan praised Pratt’s selflessness and leadership both on and off the field.
“He’s a loss because he’s such a real good club man on and off the field.
“That showed this year in our leadership group even though he was new to the club. We’re hoping to keep him involved in the club in some capacity.
“At the end of the day while he would be disappointed that he is no longer playing, he has a real bright future away from football.
“He’s an extremely popular fella in our club who has impacted more people than he knows and in a very positive way,” he added.
We wish you all the best in retirement Hugh!
