This weekend will be the final time Dane Gagai puts on the red and blue jersey for the nib Newcastle Knights as he embarks on the next stage of his football career in Sydney.
The 26-year-old has played 127 games for the Knights, totalling 10,042 minutes, and will get to add to that tally for the Club’s final home game at McDonald Jones Stadium against the Cronulla Sharks on Sunday.
“I don’t think it will be an emotional day, I will be more focused on getting the job done,” Gagai stated.
“I want to go out, perform for the Newcastle Knights and for all the boys out there and for all the fans.
“I think once it is done, I will sit back and take it all in.”
Five years with the Club, Gagai said it’s been a blast.
“I have enjoyed my time here and I loved every minute of it,” Gagai smiled.
“The town and the people are good and this is where I met my partner and we’ve got a new boy now so Newcastle has given me a lot.”
Gagai admits one of his favourite memories with the Knights was the side’s run to the finals in 2013.
“That was my first time in the finals but there has been plenty of highlights in my time here,” he said.
“I love this town and love this place and the fans are second to none and totally passionate.
“It's been a couple of tough years for everybody but we still have great turn outs to the games and it just goes to show how strong this community backs their rugby league team.”
With his time at the Knights set to come to an end, Gagai is confident the Club will continue to build for the better.
“There is a good group of young boys here that have played together in 20s and they’re bringing in a few new players next year,” explained Gagai.
“They are going to be a lot stronger next year so I'm looking forward to seeing how they’re going next year.
“Once this year is done and dusted, everyone gets to sit back and look at where they can be better.
“I am sure these boys will come back into pre-season and know what’s expected of them to be a lot stronger.”
There will be an on-field presentation for eparting and retiring players after the game.
