Putting club rivalry to one side, Radford is proud to have played his part in the development of Hodgson, who signed a two-year deal with NRL side Canberra Raiders starting next season.
Last season, Hodgson was a thorn in Radford's side in the first two derbies, before the Hull coach tasted revenge in a 28-0 whitewash in the third and final contest at the KC Stadium.
And that game could prove the last chapter for some time in their 16-year relationship in the sport.
As the coach of East Hull, Radford became aware of Hodgson's talent when the former Rovers hooker was eight years old.
Tomorrow, Hodgson wins his first cap for England in their Four Nations opener against Samoa and Radford knows he will use the tournament to showcase his skills.
"I've known Josh since he was eight years old," Radford told the Mail.
"I coached him from the age of eight until he was 16.
"I'm really pleased for him and it's a great achievement for the kid.
"To see him now play for England will be a proud moment for me.
"With him going to Canberra next year, this will give him a taste of international football and he'll certainly benefit from that.
"It'll be great to see him make his England debut."
Hodgson lines up in Steve McNamara's side at hooker, but if Radford had his way, he would have played most of his career as a loose forward.
Radford admits the pair disagreed about which position was best for Hodgson.
While Hodgson went on to become an established hooker for Rovers, he also played plenty of minutes in the position Radford thought would be best for him.
"We did have a difference of opinion when he was younger," Radford explained.
"Physically, he was always a big kid and I thought he'd end up at loose forward, not hooker.
"It's strange then that he's ended up playing both positions for Hull KR.
"I know physically he is really suited for the competition in Australia.
"He was a pleasure to coach growing up and he always had talent."
Hodgson and Radford came up against each other at the back end of the now Hull coach's career.
Like many forwards, Radford was given the run-around by his prodigy, and he can't wait to see the best forwards in the NRL struggle to contain Hodgson.
"Josh is quick around the ruck," Radford said.
"He has shown how good he is in that department.
"With two referees in the NRL and how fast their rucks are, I'm sure he'll be dynamite for Canberra."
