York Knights centre Jimmy Keinhorst announces retirement

The 34-year-old has made the decision to retire due to work commitments outside of rugby.

Keinhorst returned to the Knights on a one-year deal last October upon the expiration of his contract at Betfred Super League heavyweights Hull KR, citing his "unfinished business" with the club after a loan spell cut short by the Coronavirus pandemic.

And he has been a mainstay under both Andrew Henderson and Mark Applegarth, scoring eight times in 20 appearances so far this season.

“I will be retiring having made some amazing memories, gained invaluable experiences and built enduring friendships with some fantastic people," reflected Keinhorst, who will make his 236th and final career appearance this weekend.

“I will be forever grateful for this as I take them with me on the next phase of my journey, which has come around quicker than I had expected.

“I’d like to thank the club, and in particular, Mark, Clint [Goodchild, chairman] and the playing group for their understanding in coming to this decision. Their support over the past few weeks has helped ease the beginning of this transition.

“I wish the team and club the very best for the remainder of this season and beyond. It has been an honour to lead the team on several occasions and whilst we have not yet hit the heights we are aiming for, there remains plenty to play for this year and I firmly believe the club has solid foundations in place for the future.

“Not least in the way of our passionate fans, who continue to support York so well. Thank you to all of you."

Keinhorst has scored eight times this season, the most recent of which against Swinton two weeks ago. (Image: Craig Hawkhead Photography)

After beginning his career in rugby union with hometown club Otley, Keinhorst switched codes to join Leeds Rhinos, for whom he made his debut in 2012.

The German international made 90 appearances during his seven seasons at Headingley, where he won the 2015 League Leaders' Shield before assisting Josh Walters' match-winning try against Wigan Warriors in the Super League Grand Final at Old Trafford later that year.

He also came off the bench during the Rhinos' defeat to Warrington Wolves in the 2012 Betfred Challenge Cup final, before missing out again as the Robins were beaten by Leigh Leopards at Wembley Stadium last summer.

Keinhorst then went on to make 72 appearances for Hull KR, whom he joined in 2018, and has also turned out for Hunslet, Wakefield Trinity, Widnes Vikings, Castleford Tigers and Keighley Cougars during an illustrious career.

He continued: “I must also thank all those who played any part, large or small, in supporting me during my career. Players, staff, fans, families and volunteers all make the game what it is, and without them, there would be no journey for us to enjoy. 

“I am proud of the efforts I have given for the teams I have played in and thankful for the efforts of all those I played alongside.

“I would finally and most importantly like to thank my family who have been there with me in support every day of every season. 

“Thank you especially to my wife Sarah for having endured the highs and lows of it all right by my side, and to my daughter, who helps me put it all into perspective!”

Keinhorst made over 70 appearances for Hull KR before joining the Knights on a one-year deal in October (Image: PA)

Chairman Clint Goodchild admitted Keinhorst had “achieved more in the game than most could dream of” as he wished him the best in his retirement.

“In reading his written statement this morning I found his words to be direct, honest, brave and full of heart,” he explained.

“I think those words sum up the essence of Jimmy’s career. He has always put others first and gave everything when called upon. 

“Jimmy has achieved more in the game than most could dream of. 

“The first time we sat down and spoke with Jimmy about coming to the club you knew immediately that he had the qualities we needed to help lead a young and enthusiastic squad. 

“This year through thick and thin Jimmy has led from the front on and off the field and we owe him a huge thank you. 

“While we are sad to see him leave shy of the end of season, he has kept his respect and standing at the club in the manner to which he has made the difficult decision.

“It’s now time for Jimmy to graduate to that next stage in his professional life and enjoy extra time with his family.

“On behalf of York RLFC I would like to congratulate and thank Jimmy and his family for all he has contributed to the club. 

“I look forward to seeing him lead the lads out one last time in front of his friends, former teammates, coaches and an appreciative and boisterous York crowd on Sunday. 

“I know you will do us all proud as you always have.”

Despite his time coaching the experienced centre being brief, Applegarth enthused he had been everything he knew he would be.

The head coach added: “It’s been an absolute pleasure to coach Jimmy for this short period of time and he’s everything I knew he would be. 

“He’s a model professional that has squeezed everything he could out of himself and achieved things in the game every player dreams of whilst remaining humble and hardworking. 

“I wish him and his family every success in the future and he’s going to be sorely missed by all here at York Knights.”