Richters Retires

THE Queensland Cup?s all-time leading point-scorer, Damien ?The Rock? Richters, has confirmed his retirement.

A goal-kicking centre, Richters departs the competition with 1030 points, three Queensland Cup premierships, a reserve grade premiership and the record for most points in a single game.

In his final season for Redcliffe at age 29, the Hervey Bay junior notched his 100th first grade appearance and finished as leading point-scorer for 2004 on 246 points.

Richters and his wife Rochelle also became parents for the first time, welcoming daughter Yasmin, now nine months old.

``I never envisaged a lot of things that have ended up happening, especially the three premierships,?? Richters said this week.

``The Queensland Cup gets stronger and stronger each year and the commitment needed for success becomes more and more.

``Right now I just feel that time needs to be put into getting the balance right in other areas of my life.??

Additional to family commitments, Richters has embarked on a new career as a personal trainer.

His decision to retire was made after completing the first week back at pre-season training, when intuition told him it was time.

However, he has not closed the door on the possibility of playing again in the future for Redcliffe or perhaps even an overseas team.

Despite his close association with former Redcliffe coach Neil Wharton (now at Wynnum), Richters said he would remain loyal to the Dolphins if he returned.

Prior to this season, Papua New Guinea international John Wilshere held the record for most career points in the Queensland Cup, boasting a tally of 896.

In a curious coincidence, Wilshere was this week released by English club Warrington due to ongoing injury. He played just eight matches for the Wolves this season.

DAMIEN RICHTERS Queensland Cup Records

? Most Career Points: 1030 points (58 tries, 399 goals). ? Most Points Individual Match (tied): 40 points (5t, 10g v Logan 14/4/02). ? Leading Season Points: 2002, 2004 (Both seasons scored 246 points, consisting of 10t, 103g). ? Queensland Residents selection 2002. ? Played inaugural Queensland Cup season for Sunshine Coast Falcons (1996). Played in 1997 for Maroochydore in Sunshine Coast RL. Played 1998-2004 with Redcliffe Dolphins in Queensland Cup and Mixwell Cup. ? Queensland Cup premierships in 2000, 2002, 2003. Mixwell Cup premiership in 1999.