Ball's decision to quit is no surprise, with the Brooksbank School teacher missing the second half of the 2008 after undergoing major shoulder surgery.

In total, the former Hull KR, Rochdale and Dewsbury player made 73 appearances for Fax after joining the club midway through 2005, but only four this season.

"It was always my intention to retire at the end of this year and I am ready to announce it now," said Ball.

"I didn't want to do it earlier in the year in case they ended up needing me again.

"I suspect Matt is probably glad he didn't have to call on me and I am still having a few problems with my shoulder.

"It's been a great career - I've played 14 seasons and more games than I can put my finger on and the people I have met along the way have been fantastic.

"I have played in Grand Finals and I have always been at the top of the National Leagues.

"If you were being critical, I suppose I should have had a go at Super League at some point but it didn't happen and, generally, I am really happy with my career."

Now the 33 year old, who has juggled on field commitments with a role as an assistant to boss Matt Calland, will focus on coaching duties next season.

"Matt's mentioned to me about staying for another year and that suits me fine," said Ball, who has enjoyed a long association with Calland and Fax's director of football Martin Hall dating back to Rochdale in 2003.

"The coaching has been a good experience and an enjoyable one.

"It's been difficult making the transition from player to coach at times, but it's a challenge I have enjoyed.

"In the end, it was a very disappointing way to end the year, losing to Whitehaven.

"But play off football is about an 80 minute performance and we weren't smart enough on the day.

"We have to regroup, look at the highs and lows and see how we move forward now."

FORMER Halifax prop forward Jamie Thackray has signed a new one-year contract with Hull.

The ex-Leeds front-rower had been linked to a host of other Super League clubs including Wigan and Wakefield.

"I have loved being back at Hull. I am determined to have a big off season to put myself in the best physical shape for 2009 so that I can help Hull FC challenge for honours," said Thackray.

• Coming soon: 2008 try of the season competition - your chance to pick the winner

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