Workington Town chairman Graeme Peers has led the tributes to Jason Mossop who has now officially announced his retirement.
Mossop picked up a knee injury in Town’s game at Cornwall in July and has not played since, but that has proved to be his final outing in professional rugby league.
The 39-year-old hard-tackling centre, known for his defensive qualities, has been a pro for 20 seasons and has played 375 games.
Peers said: “Jason returned to Town at the start of the 2023 season adding his vast experience to the group and we have been lucky and privileged to be the club where he played the majority of those 375 games and also to be the club where he brought his excellent career to an end.
“A true professional and dedicated to the profession that is what has allowed him to play so many professional matches.
“I’m sure there are many highlights that fans will remember him for, but for me I was there when he gave Townies one of the most amazing finishes when he powered over in the corner followed by Jarrod Sammut converting to give Town a memorable on the hooter derby win!
“Everyone at Town wishes Jason a great future blessed by spending quality time with his family and watching his boys grow up. He will always be welcome at Workington Town.”
A product of the Hensingham amateur club Jason went on to be a Leeds Metropolitan University graduate and a former Castleford Tigers academy player who had a spell at Batley Bulldogs in 2007 as well as short spells at Sheffield Eagles, Whitehaven and Hunslet RLFC.
On his retirement Jason told the Town website: “Rugby league has provided me with many ups and downs, but most importantly some special memories. This sport has allowed me to travel the world and make the most amazing friendships.
“After 20 Seasons and 375 games later it’s time to enjoy watching from the stands with my boys.
“I want to thank all my team-mates, coaches and clubs for their support over the years, and the supporters who have all helped in making this an enjoyable career.
“Most Importantly I want to thank my family. Especially my parents who have been there since day one, sacrificing so much to take me all over the country as a kid to play the game I loved and been there until the end.
“A thank you also to my brothers who have always been there for me whenever I have needed them.
“Finally a special thank you goes to my wife Lisa who has supported me so such over the years and understood the sacrifices unfortunately the sport brings to the family.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart, Lisa, you have allowed me to reach my greatest achievement of playing in front of my boys Parker and Harrison!
“Thank you all, especially rugby league.”
