It will be a first and a last for Todd Rope when he runs out onto the field for the rugby league grand final.

He will be a part of the first Tigers first grade side to play in a Group 11 grand final. It will also be the last time the Tigers stalwart will play for the team.

After two decades of games, front-rower Todd Rope is hanging up his boots. 

After roughly 300 caps and 21 seasons for the boys in orange and black, Rope said he’s looking forward to joining the fantastic Tigers spectators and helping out on the committee.

Rope said the final game at Larkin Oval, when the Tigers beat 2016 premiers Forbes Magpies in the semi-final, was a surreal experience. 

“I wasn’t even thinking about it, but the boys organised my wife and kids to present me with my jersey,” he said. 

When he finished the game the Tigers crowd cheered the veteran off the field.

“The crowd gets me ticking, it’s the best crowd in Group 11. They’re that proud they’ll cheer for you no matter what,” Rope said. 

President Glen Neill said Rope has been an inspiration around the club. 

“Todd has been an inspiration to our younger players over many years and has always put his hand up for whatever is required,” he said. 

“Toddy might never have been the prettiest player in the game however he has always given his best for the Tigers both on and off the field.”

Rope, Neill and the Tigers club are all primed for Sunday’s game, with Rope tipping the Tigers for the win.

“This is a dream come true, to make it to the Group 11 final for the first time in 18 seasons” he said. 

“I’m feeling confident, I’ve got a good feeling about the boys. It’s been a long time since I’ve had this feeling and it’s all come down from Stewie Mills.” 

Neill said he hopes for the premiership for many reasons including Rope’s retirement. 

“Todd has been a life member of the club for years and would be awesome if he retired winning the Group 11 Premiership,” he said.