Castleford Tigers prop, Andy Lynch is delighted to announce that he will be celebrating his testimonial year throughout 2014.

Lynch, 34, has enjoyed a marvellous career to date having played over 400 matches spanning 15-years for current club Castleford (1999-2004 and 2014), Bradford Bulls (2005-2011), Hull FC (2012-2013), England and Great Britain. A number of special events will take place through the year for all rugby league supporters to get involved with.

On the announcement, Lynch said: “I am delighted to have been recognised by the clubs I have represented and the RFL and be honoured with a testimonial year.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my career so far which has given me so much joy and success. It’s been a dream come true to play for my boyhood team in Castleford Tigers, represent my country on several occasions on the World stage and also play for two other of rugby league’s most historic teams.”

As a coach of his childhood amateur side Kippax Welfare and ambassador of Life For A Kid, a charity supporting children who require life changing operations and equipment to lead a better life, Lynch continues his longstanding relationship with the community.

“It’s given me an equal amount of pride to work with lots of people outside of the professional game, from community coaches, amateur players, volunteers and charities, such as Life For A Kid and RL4Alex.

“I’m a firm believer that professional athletes have a responsibility to help others in any way they can, whether that’s passing on their knowledge of the game or using their standing within their communities to highlight difficulties that can sometimes go unnoticed.Andy Lynch

“A number of events are lined up over the next few months which will hopefully inspire members of the rugby league family to get involved and join in.

“I would like to thank all those who I’ve had the pleasure to work with so far and the fans who have supported me – it would be great to see you at one of my events in the future.”

Castleford Tigers Chief Executive, Steve Gill said: “We are really pleased for Andy that he has been granted a testimonial. He has been a great servant to all of rugby league and so it is a thoroughly deserved and we wish him all the best for the year ahead, not just on the field but off it too.”

For more information on Andy Lynch’s testimonial year, please visit www.castigers.com, Like his testimonial Facebook page www.facebook.com/andy.lynchtestimonial or follow Andy on Twitter @8AndyLynch

State of Mind would like to wish Andy a fantastic testimonial it is well deserved!