Penrith prop Adam Woolnough has announced his retirement from the NRL at the age of 27 and with a year still to run on his contract.

Woolnough, who played 131 NRL games for Newcastle and Penrith after debuting for the Knights in 2002, made the decision to quit rugby league after losing his passion for the game.

"I've decided there are other things I want to do personally and other things that my wife Bec and I want to do together," said Woolnough.

"I know that I'm only 27 but to achieve those goals I wouldn't mind doing it now when I am still young."

Panthers coach Matthew Elliott said he supported Woolnough's decision to quit in the midst of Penrith's attempt to qualify for the NRL finals.

Woolnough has managed just six NRL games in 2009, his last coming in the round 21 draw with the Warriors.

"I have a heap of respect for the decision that Adam has made and the honesty in making that decision," Elliott said.

"Adam could have continued on with the club with his heart and head not in the right place making up the numbers in the team but he made the decision to retire to pursue other priorities in his life."

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