Griffin has retired with immediate effect.
Former Hull FC player Josh Griffin has retired from professional rugby league. (Image: SW PIX)
Former Hull FC centre Josh Griffin has announced his retirement from rugby league with immediate effect.
The 36-year-old, who signed for York Knights ahead of the 2026 season, sadly ruptured his pectoral last month, and has now declared it’s ‘the right time’ to hang up the boots.
Enjoying an 18-year professional career, Griffin won the 2017 Challenge Cup with Hull. His spell at the Black and Whites was the longest of his career, totalling 144 of his 330+ senior appearances.
Griffin also had three playing spells at Wakefield Trinity, including his 2008 debut. He won a 2024 Championship treble with the West Yorkshire club, claiming the 1895 Cup, the Championship League Leaders Shield, and Championship Grand Final.
In total, Griffin played for Wakefield, Huddersfield Giants, Batley Bulldogs, Castleford Tigers, Salford Red Devils, Hull, and York Knights. He scored 138 tries and kicked 112 goals for a total of 776 points.
Playing for York, he ruptured his pec against former club Wakefield last month, an injury that required surgery and one that was to take four months of rehab, with the player now making the difficult decision to retire.
Sharing a post on his Instagram page, Griffin wrote: “That’s all she wrote. After 19 seasons, it’s time for me to retire from rugby league with immediate effect.
“It’s not the way I wanted it to finish, but due to my latest injury, I believe it’s the right time. However, one thing I’ve learned over my career is that I’m one resilient S.O.B.
“Growing up in Witney, Oxfordshire, I never imagined that making my debut as a 17-year-old in 2008 would begin such an incredible journey. The game has given me lifelong memories, friendships, experiences and opportunities that I’ll always treasure.
“I’d like to thank every club I’ve had the privilege to represent: Wakefield Trinity, Castleford Tigers, Huddersfield Giants, Batley Bulldogs, Salford Red Devils, Hull FC, and York Knights. It’s been an honour to wear each every jersey and be part of so many special teams and communities.
“To my teammates, coaches, staff and supporters, thank you for being part of the journey and for the memories. Most importantly, thank you to my family. Your constant support, sacrifices and belief in me made it all possible. Through every high and low, you were always there, and I’m forever grateful.
“Rugby league has shaped so much of my life. As this chapter closes, I look ahead with pride, gratitude and excitement for what’s next. Thank you, rugby league. Griff out.”