Gee, Ikin and Lee Retire
by
Wednesday July 30, 2003

In something of a shock, the Brisbane Broncos today announced that Ben Ikin, Phil Lee and Andrew Gee would retire at the end of season 2003.  This news was tempered with the announcement of the re-signing of seven players beyond this season.

While Gee's retirement after 15 years in senior football is not a surprise, the retirements of Ikin and Lee are somewhat out of left field.  Ikin has battled back from consecutive knee injuries to be the Broncos' first choice five-eighth and played in all three State of Origin matches for Queensland this season. Lee, who was dropped back to the Toowoomba Clydesdales early in the season due to bad form, has been playing strongly for the Clydesdales, and was seemingly on the brink of a first grade recall.

The trio have come under heavy fire from fans and critics alike over the past 12 months, however, that is unlikely to have played more than a minor role in the trio's decision.

Ikin's retirement compounds the problems caused by Scott Prince's signing with Wests Tigers for next season.  Shaun Berrigan remains the only senior half remaining with the club, with the injured Brett Seymour likely to get first crack at five-eighth next season.

However, while Broncos managing director Bruno Cullen expressed sadness for the loss of three valuable contributors to the Bronco family, he tempered that slightly with the announcement that seven players had agreed to terms for 2004 and beyond.

Among them are the key signatures of Michael De Vere and Shaun Berrigan.  De Vere was rumoured to be chased by as many as six other clubs, while Berrigan also attracted interest from Sydney clubs, including the Tigers.  The two State of Origin stars will be cornerstones of the side in 2004 as their status as senior players increases.

Other players to re-sign are utility back Casey McGuire, winger Craig Frawley, hooker Michael Ryan, lock Neale Wyatt and winger/fullback Steve Irwin.  Ryan's signature is particularly important with Richard Swain moving to England next season.  The youngster has long been touted as the heir apparent to the Broncos' number 9, and after battling a couple of frustrating years through injury he has hit some form with the Clydesdales and should be ready to show his potential in 2004.

Meanwhile, rumours surrounding former Sharks back rower Nick Graham's arrival at the club have heightened, with hints that he has all but agreed to terms. However, Wests Tigers believe they had a verbal agreement with Graham which they want him to honour.  The Broncos have stepped back from negotiations until Graham's involvement with the Tigers is settled. The odds of him coming to Red Hill next year are lengthening.

And Broncos fullback Darren Lockyer says he is recovering quickly from torn ankle ligaments and ambitiously expects to be back for the Wests Tigers game at Suncorp Stadium in round 23.  Lockyer was originally expected to be sidelined for 6-8 weeks.