Toughest Man in the NRL: Ray Stone's Legacy to Live On After Retirement
Dolphins forward Ray Stone will retire at the end of the 2026 season, but not before helping his team take on the Sydney Roosters in the NRL preliminary final. Stone, known for his toughness and commitment to the team, will leave a legacy at the Dolphins.
As the Dolphins prepare to take on the Sydney Roosters in the NRL preliminary final, one player will be suiting up for what could be his last game - Ray Stone, the team's rugged and resilient forward, is set to retire at the end of the 2026 season.
Stone, 29, has built a reputation as one of the toughest players in the league, and his coach, Kristian Woolf, was quick to praise his commitment to the team. "There are a lot of tough men who play our game but he is in the top group," Woolf said. "It is not just his toughness, it's his commitment to the team that I really admire."
Woolf highlighted Stone's selfless attitude, saying he "refuses to let his teammates down" and is always willing to put in the hard yards, whether it's playing injured or making an effort on a kick-chase. "I love his hit-ups off the kick-off," Woolf added. "I get a kick out of watching those because he runs so hard. He is just committed to the team. That is what we are going to miss."
Stone's decision to retire is reportedly driven by a desire to spend more time with his family. "It is probably based on family time for me," he said. "The kids are getting a bit older and I am quite busy on weekends so I want to be a part of that."
Woolf has tried to convince Stone to play on, but the forward has made up his mind. "I have spoken to him a number of times and asked if I could change his mind but he has got other things in life he wants to do," Woolf said. "I respect that about him. He knows what he wants. He has pushed himself through the pain."
Stone has had a decorated career, playing 112 games for the Dolphins and Parramatta. He has scored eight tries for the Dolphins and has been a key contributor to the team's success, helping them win 16 of their last 18 matches.
When asked about his post-rugby plans, Stone hinted that he may consider a career in boxing, but insisted that family would be his priority. "I like to leave all my celebrating until after the game when the boys have got the result," he said, his focus still firmly on the task at hand.
As the Dolphins take on the Roosters, Stone will look to go out on a high, with his team well-placed to make a deep run in the finals.