Rugby League: Kiwi Ferns legend Hireme-Smiler calls time on career

Kiwi Ferns great Honey Hireme-Smiler has announced her retirement from rugby league, after Saturday's test win against Samoa. 

Regarded as New Zealand's best ever, Hireme-Smiler's career ends with 32 test matches in the black jersey spanning years, including four World Cups.

The 39-year-old has been named in NRL.com’s women’s rugby league team of the decade (2010s), and appointed a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to the game.

The Putaruru-product has also been awarded NZ Rugby League's women's player of the year on three occasions (2007, 2012 and 2017). 

Hireme-Smiler first represented New Zealand in 2002, the year before the then 22-year-old scored ten tries at the World Cup.

This year, she was due to play in NRLW Warriors campaign this year but missed out due to injury. 

To wrap up her career, she was called into the Kiwi Ferns side to play in the 28-8 win over the Samoan invitational side.

"Deciding to retire has been a really hard decision," Hireme-Smiler says.

"My heart and my mind would play footy until I'm 50, but my body tells me my time is done. I love my team, my sport and I love to compete. 

"I have given all I can as a player and have always aimed to give nothing less than my absolute best."

Hireme-Smiler hopes to remain involved with the game in some capacity, which will likely involve continuing her commentary role with Sky Sport.

"Although I may not be out on the field, making an impact, I will continue to serve the game off the field for many years to come," she says. 

"Every teammate, every coach, every manager, trainer, medical staff, support person, mentor, fan, friend and most of all my loving whānau, thank you for being a part of this journey, for your guidance, support and love I am truly grateful to you all."