Nicholls to hang up the boots at season's end

The Dolphins will say goodbye to a cornerstone of their history at the end of the 2025 season, as Mark Nicholls announces his retirement from the NRL.

Nicholls joined the Dolphins ahead of their inaugural season in 2023, becoming one of the veteran players who helped "dig the well" for the new team.

He will conclude his career with 194 NRL games, having debuted with the Canberra Raiders in 2012. He also had tenures with the Storm and Rabbitohs, where he gained significant recognition under coach Wayne Bennett.

Notably, he played in the 2021 NRL Grand Final with the Rabbitohs, establishing himself as a tough, reliable forward who earned the admiration of both teammates and fans.

His career came full circle when he joined Bennett at the Dolphins as a foundation player. From the very beginning, Nicholls was a key member of the Dolphins' leadership, contributing humility and honesty to the team environment.

His relentless work ethic was vital in helping to lay the groundwork for the fledgling club and setting high standards for those around him. In recognition of his contributions, he was named the Dolphins' Best Forward in the club's first year.

Nicholls' commitment to putting in the hard work exemplified what it means to don the red, white, and gold, and he leaves behind a legacy that will motivate future generations of Dolphins players.