On this day in 2009, the Black & Whites confirmed the signing of Australian international and New South Wales representative Craig Fitzgibbon in one of the club’s biggest signings of the Super League era – hullfc.com looks back at our latest Rugby League Icon.
After spending 10 seasons with the Sydney Roosters, Hull bagged one of their signings of the Super League era so far when Fitzgibbon signed ahead of the 2010 campaign.
Fitzgibbon featured in five NRL Grand Finals between 1999 and 2004, victorious in 2002 and winning the Clive Churchill Medal.
Fitzgibbon also held the accolade of being the highest point scoring forward in NRL history with 1560 points.
A former Australian international and New South Wales and Country representative, the loose-forward was immediately named Hull FC captain on his arrival.
The Aussie made a total of 44 appearances for the club during his spell in East Yorkshire, bagging nine tries in the process.
The bullish forward was renowned for his tackling prowess, making 59+ tackles in two State of Origin matches. He continued that form into his spell at the KCOM Stadium.
Fitzgibbon was capable of putting in an 80 minute performance every week, despite coming towards the end of his career.
In his second season at the club, Fitzgibbon was selected for the Exiles squad for the Rugby League International Origin Match against England at Headingley.
However, in September 2011, Fitzgibbon suffered a fracture and ligament damage to his ankle against Castleford and announced his retirement at the age of 34.
Fitzgibbon announced he would return to Sydney Roosters in 2012 as part of their coaching staff.
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