Tim Davidson made an impact in Melbourne © Getty Images

Enlarge

Tim Davidson will retire at the end of the 2013 Super Rugby season, having played for New South Wales Waratahs and Western Force before being named the inaugural Melbourne Rebels captain. Davidson, who has played 41 Super Rugby matches, He has also captained Sydney University to seven Shute Shield titles, six in succession.

"Obviously it's a pretty special time finishing up here," Davidson said. "It's funny, you get an innate feeling that tells you it's time to move on and you're ready to choose what's next, and that's what I have had. I haven't spoken about it or thought about it too much, but luckily I have a few good mates who are going through the same thing so I'm sure we will spend the time reflecting together when the time comes. I do know that being a foundation member and helping to shape the direction of the club right from the start has been a fantastic experience."

Damien Hill, who coached Davidson at Sydney University as well as the Rebels, said: "I've been very fortunate that Tim has been part of the teams that I've coached over the last eight years. Tim's loyalty and working ethic make him the perfect role model for all of our young Rebels. He is a proud family man and extremely well respected throughout the rugby community. Tim is the best young leader I've had the pleasure to work with and I'd personally like to thank him for all he has done for the team and the Rebels over the last three years."

Davidson believes that the next generation of leaders is ready to assume the mantle at the Rebels.

"I'm extremely confident in the future of the club," he said. "Guys like Hugh Pyle, Luke Jones and Cadeyrn Neville are coming into their fourth and fifth seasons as players, and I think there is a good nucleus there that can move the team forward. They are on the brink of winning many games, and that bit more experience that they will have I will help them win the tight ones. Hopefully the success that we all want will come. Player turnover is an unfortunate part of the game, but with the guys who are staying, the club is in good hands."