RETIRING Giants favourite Steve McNamara has issued a massive thank you to everyone associated with the club for making the past three seasons so memorable.
McNamara will hang up his boots after Sunday's final Super League game of the season at London Broncos (3.00).
He takes up a coaching role at Bradford Bulls next season.
But he admits the capital clash will be an emotional occasion.
The 31-year-old was speaking a day after Warrington prop Mark Hilton was handed a three-match ban for a head high challenge on Paul Reilly on Friday, in a game the Wolves won to end the Giants' hope of reaching the play-offs.
That was McNamara's one main regret this season, although it has failed to take the gloss off his time at the McAlpine.
"It would have been fantastic to have signed off my playing career by helping to get the Giants into the play-offs," said McNamara.
"Unfortunately, it wasn't to be, but it's still been a great year.
"When I look back at what we've achieved I feel very proud.
"It was one of my aims when we were promoted last season to see the Giants become an established Super League side. I believe that's been achieved.
"I know when I retire I'll be able to look back on my three years at Huddersfield with affection. Sunday will be a sad occasion.
"I've had a great time and met some fantastic people.
"This is now the time to thank everyone associated with the club for the magnificent support they have given me. I hope people appreciate how much it means."
Yet the Giants' play-off dream could still have been alive had referee Russell Smith sent off Hilton for his illegal third-minute challenge on Reilly.
Smith put the incident on report, but the fact Hilton has been banned for three matches underlines the severity of the hit.
"I honestly thought he would get four games," said Giants chief executive Ralph Rimmer.
"The decision not to send Hilton off is clearly one that went against us, but you have to take the rough with the smooth."
Meanwhile, the Flyers have had to order an extra coach for fans wishing to travel to the London game. Tickets are on sale at Tony Iredale Travel.
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