MATT Diskin has confirmed he will retire at the end of the season, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious career which has seen him achieve his boyhood dreams.

The Bulls captain progressed through the ranks at Leeds and was part of the side which clinched their first championship in 32 years after beating Bradford in the 2004 Grand Final.

Diskin won the Harry Sunderland Trophy for his man-of-the-match performance and went on to earn three more Super League titles and a World Club Challenge in 2008.

The 32-year-old crossed the divide to Bradford ahead of the 2011 campaign for a spell which he says has included "plenty of ups and downs" but will hang up his boots later this month.

"I've had a career doing something I'd have done for free at the drop of a hat," said the veteran hooker.

"To have 14 years at the top level is something I'm very proud of and I've earned everything I've got through hard work, grit and determination.

"I've also been very blessed in that I've played in some fantastic teams and been able to achieve things that you can only ever dream of as a kid."

Diskin's time at Bradford has included two spells in administration and this season has seen the club relegated, with the club skipper placed in temporary charge for the visit of Hull KR in June.

"We've had plenty of ups and plenty of downs but I've enjoyed every minute of my time here," he said.

"We've been relegated and that's what we'll be remembered for, which is a shame, but how the players have handled themselves with dignity throughout this process is second to none.

"I'm very proud to have captained this club but even more proud to have captained this group of players."

Diskin has battled through the pain barrier in the past couple of seasons after an operation to remove nerves from his feet.

He has undergone cryotherapy and has needed around 80 pain-killing injections this year.

Diskin, who has business interests outside of rugby league, is keen to stay in the game and could extend his career at the Bulls in a coaching capacity.

He added: “I believe I am developing as a person and as a coach constantly.

“If I continue in coaching, which I’d like to do, then I will keep learning from the people around me.

“I want to put back in whatever capacity I can to help get the club return to where it deserves it to be."