Jimmy Keinhorst has announced he will retire from York Knights

York Knights centre, Jimmy Keinhorst has announced he will retire from rugby league after Sunday’s game at home to Dewsbury Rams in the Betfred Championship.

The 34-year old, sponsored by Yorkshire Profiles has made the decision because of work commitments outside of the sport which will now become his focus.

He leaves York RLFC with the best wishes of everyone connected to the club.

After starting in rugby union, Keinhorst signed a professional contract with Leeds Rhinos, making his Super League debut with them in 2012.

He went on to make 90 appearances for them, including in the 2012 Challenge Cup Final at Wembley where Leeds lost to Warrington, and also the 2015 Super League Grand Final when Leeds beat Wigan Warriors to claim the title.

He featured for eight clubs in his career which included two spells at York, first on loan from Hull KR in 2020 before returning for 2024.

He also represented Germany ten times between 2008 and 2023, scoring 17 tries. 

On his decision to retire, Keinhorst said: “I will be retiring having made some amazing memories, gained invaluable experiences and built enduring friendships with some fantastic people. 

“I will be forever grateful for this as I take them with me on the next phase of my journey, which has come around quicker than I had expected.

“I’d like to thank the club, and in particular, Mark, Clint and the playing group for their understanding in coming to this decision. Their support over the past few weeks has helped ease the beginning of this transition. 

“I wish the team and club the very best for the remainder of this season and beyond. It has been an honour to lead the team on several occasions and whilst we have not yet hit the heights we are aiming for, there remains plenty to play for this year and I firmly believe the club has solid foundations in place for the future. 

“Not least in the way of our passionate fans, who continue to support York so well. Thank you to all of you. 

“I must also thank all those who played any part, large or small, in supporting me during my career. Players, staff, fans, families and volunteers all make the game what it is, and without them, there would be no journey for us to enjoy. 

“I am proud of the efforts I have given for the teams I have played in and thankful for the efforts of all those I played alongside.

“I would finally and most importantly like to thank my family who have been there with me in support every day of every season. 

“Thank you especially to my wife Sarah for having endured the highs and lows of it all right by my side, and to my daughter, who helps me put it all into perspective!”

York RLFC Chairman, Clint Goodchild said: “How can you sum up a career like Jimmy’s in a few words? 

“In reading his written statement this morning I found his words to be direct, honest, brave and full of heart. I think those words sum up the essence of Jimmy’s career. 

“He has always put others first and gave everything when called upon. 

“Jimmy has achieved more in the game than most could dream of. 

“The first time we sat down and spoke with Jimmy about coming to the club you knew immediately that he had the qualities we needed to help lead a young and enthusiastic squad. 

“This year through thick and thin Jimmy has led from the front on and off the field and we owe him a huge thank you. 

“While we are sad to see him leave shy of the end of season, he has kept his respect and standing at the Club in the manner to which he has made the difficult decision.

“It’s now time for Jimmy to graduate to that next stage in his professional life and enjoy extra time with his family.

“On behalf of York RLFC I would like to congratulate and thank Jimmy and his family for all he has contributed to the Club. 

“I look forward to seeing him lead the lads out one last time in front of his friends, former teammates, coaches and an appreciative and boisterous York crowd on Sunday. I

“I know you will do us all proud as you always have.”

York RLFC Head Coach, Mark Applegarth added: “It’s been an absolute pleasure to coach Jimmy for this short period of time and he’s everything I knew he would be. 

“He’s a model professional that has squeezed everything he could out of himself and achieved things in the game every player dreams of whilst remaining humble and hardworking. 

“I wish him and his family every success in the future and he’s going to be sorely missed by all here at York Knights.”