The Dolphins will bid farewell to one of the club’s foundation legends at the end of the 2025 season with Mark Nicholls announcing his retirement from the NRL.
Nicholls joined the Dolphins ahead of the club’s 2023 debut season becoming one of the experienced heads that helped 'dig the well'.
Nicholls will finish his career with 194 NRL appearances, having made his debut for the Canberra Raiders in 2012 before stints with the Storm and Rabbitohs, where he became a cult figure under Wayne Bennett.
He featured in the 2021 NRL Grand Final with the Rabbitohs and built a reputation as a no-nonsense, dependable forward who earned the respect of teammates and fans alike.
His journey came full circle when he followed Bennett to the Dolphins to make history as a foundation player. From day one, Nicholls became a cornerstone of the Dolphins’ leadership team, bringing humility and honesty to the dressing room.
He put in the work and helped establish the rising club, setting standards for those around him. In recognition of his impact, Nicholls was awarded the Dolphins’ Best Forward award in the club's inaugural year.
His willingness to do the hard yards for the team epitomised what it means to wear red, white, and gold, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire the next generation of Dolphins.
Mark Nicholls
- Canberra Raiders 2012-15, 19 games
- Melbourne Storm 2017, 9 games
- South Sydney Rabbitohs 2018-22, 100 games
- Dolphins 2023-25, 65 games (one to go!)
