Andrew Dixon will call time on his 16-year-long professional career upon the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Affectionally known as ‘Dicko’, the back-rower has represented seven clubs since his debut for St Helens against Hull KR in February 2009.
He went on to play 67 times for the three-time World Champions, including two Super League Grand Final appearances, where he was a try-scorer at Old Trafford in 2010.
During his time at the Club, he represented England’s U18s on a tour of Australia.
After his fourth full season at Saints, Dixon joined Salford Red Devils for the first time in 2013.
He was a standout performer in his first campaign with the Reds, captaining the side on multiple occasions and picking up the Club’s Players’ Player, and Player of the Year at our annual awards ceremony.
His success continued when he joined Leigh Centurions (now Leopards) ahead of the 2015 season, where he won two Championship titles and earned the Leythers’ promotion to Super League via the Super 8s.
Two spells with clubs outside England followed; first with Toronto Wolfpack, where he joined the squad for their inaugural 2017 season.
After winning the Betfred League 1 and back-to-back Championship titles, Dixon was part of the team that earned promotion to Super League via the Million Pound Game in 2019 – playing every single game of that season.
Following the Wolfpack’s withdrawal from the top division in 2020, he swapped Canada for France – signing for Toulouse Olympique in the Championship.
After helping the French outfit earn promotion, Dixon was part of their 2023 Super League squad before making return to the Red Devils and a reunion with Paul Rowley.
On his decision to retire and looking back on his brilliant rugby league career, Dixon has said: “After 16 unforgettable years in professional Rugby League, the time has come for me to step away from the game that has given me so much.
“It’s been an incredible journey, playing for five amazing clubs — St Helens, Leigh, Salford, Toronto and Toulouse. Each club has left a lasting impact on my career and my life, shaping me both as a player and as a person.
“I’ve had the privilege of living out my childhood dream, competing in two grand finals, scoring in one, and achieving promotion to the Super League with three incredible clubs: Leigh, Toronto, and Toulouse.
“This decision wasn’t easy, but I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished in my career, and I’m grateful for all the memories, the friendships, and the lessons learned along the way. Rugby League has been my life for so long, and while I’m stepping away from playing, I’ll always remain a part of this incredible community.
“To my wife, Lauren, thank you for being my rock. Your unwavering support, love, and understanding throughout this journey have meant more to me than I could ever express.
“I also want to thank my parents, who have been with me every step of the way. From taking me to my first rugby games playing amateur rugby for Crossfield’s and Blackbrook as a child. You were there for all the early mornings, long drives, and countless matches, never missing a moment and always believing in me. I couldn’t have achieved this dream without you by my side.
“To my family, friends, teammates, coaches, and everyone who has been with me through this journey — thank you. I couldn’t have done it without you. I’m excited to see what the future holds, but for now, I’ll cherish every moment of this amazing chapter of my life.
“Lastly, I want to thank the club, fans and community of Salford. I leave the game with a full heart and a lifetime of memories. It’s been an honour.
“With gratitude and love, Dicko.”
Head Coach, Paul Rowley, has also said: “I would like to congratulate Dicko on a fantastic career. He’s been the ultimate pro and the best teammate from start to finish.
“On behalf of the club, he’s always welcome back, but on a personal note he is more than just a player, he’s a loyal and trusted friend that I’ve had the good fortune of sharing many great times with.
“Our friendship is one built from a mutual respect and honesty and as always, this is the best bit about rugby league – the people you meet and the memories you make. In the words of our friend Adam Sidlow ‘blessed'”
Managing Director, Paul King has added: “Dicko is a model professional and a brilliant servant to game over his fantastic playing career.
“I know these decisions are taken with a heavy heart, but Dicko is a very intelligent individual and I am sure he has his next steps planned out and will be a huge success wherever his career takes him.
“On behalf of the staff, players and everyone involved at the club, we congratulate Dicko on an outstanding career. He will always be welcome back at the Salford Community Stadium and look forward to seeing him at a game soon.”
