St George Illawarra captain Ben Hornby will fulfill his dream of finishing a one-club player after signing a new deal that will take him through to the end of the 2013 season.
The 30-year-old local junior has long expressed a desire to finish his career at the club where it all started in 2000 – some 223 first grade games ago.
Hornby has led the Red V to consecutive minor premiership and will be a central figure in the club's push for an elusive premiership over the next month.
"I've been here my whole career and the thought never really crossed my mind to play anywhere else and hopefully I'll finish my career here," he said on Thursday.
"We have a great bunch of guys here and enjoy each other's company so I believe we have a good opportunity not only this year but also over the next couple to do something special."
Remarkably, the durable veteran had missed just one game in the past two seasons, highlighting his value to the side.
"I'm really enjoying my footy and my body feels really good at the moment and I've had a good run with injuries over the last few years so hopefully that continues in the future and I can continue to play a lot of footy," he said.
Coach Wayne Bennett is delighted Hornby has chosen to remain at the Dragons.
"I am elated. It is only right that he should finish he career at the Dragons," Bennett said.
"Ben is a pleasure to work with and had done an exceptional job as captain over
the past two seasons."
"His play at halfback has added an extra dimension to our team and it is great news for everyone involved with the Dragons."
Dragons CEO Peter Doust added: "Ben is a special player and special person."
"The attributes he brings to the club both on and off the field are exceptional and we are delighted that he has chosen to remain."