But he further surprised the club by refusing to take any "golden handshake" in a move that has won him universal praise in the game.<\/p>\n
More than that, it gives the Dragons an extra $350,000 to play with – the approximate amount Merrin is giving up by retiring after just six rounds of the season.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
The club is now on the lookout for players thinking about a change of scenery, with big forwards their first priority.<\/p>\n
There are several likely candidates running around in the NSW and Queensland Cup and the Dragons are expected to keep a close eye on both competitions this weekend.<\/p>\n
The Dragons have been a surprise packet in the early rounds, winning four straight games before last weekend's upset loss to the Warriors.<\/p>\n
"I'm very happy to be able to finish my career on my own terms," Merrin said yesterday.<\/p>\n
"This was a decision where I had to be true to myself. I have outgrown the game and the game has outgrown me, although my appreciation for rugby league will never die."<\/p>\n
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