Barrow Raiders forward Danny Morrow is to hang up his boots.
The 32-year-old second-row forward has decided to retire after playing a part in the Raiders successful 2022 campaign.
Morrow has spent seven seasons with the Raiders after signing from the amateur club Walney and making his debut in a 38-0 victory at Coventry Bears in April 2016.
Since then, he has gone on to make 78 appearances for the Raiders and scored 18 tries.
In the season just ended he made five starts for Paul Crarey’s side plus a further eight appearances as a substitute.
After announcing his retirement, he said hanging up his boots was one of the hardest decisions he’s ever had to make.
He went on: “It’s been in the back of my mind for several months, and in all honesty it would have been a lot easier to just say ‘I’ll do another year.’
“But in my gut I knew it was the right time for me, and a weight has been lifted now I’ve drawn a line under this chapter.
“I’ve been playing rugby at different levels since I was seven years of age, and when it sinks in that I’ve officially stepped away from the game I’m sure it will be a shock to the system.
“The lads have all been brilliant and understanding of the decision, and I knew I could always count on them to be supportive. They are a special set of blokes, which is one of the reasons why it has been hard to say goodbye.”
Raiders head coach Paul Crarey has also paid tribute to Morrow.
He said: “He’s been great and I know he’s been thinking about retiring over the last seven months. He’s unfortunately decided not to go around again.
“This league is pretty brutal, and he’s just got married and has a young family. He’s done really well for us, and we wish him all the best in his retirement.”
Barrow Raiders chairman Steve Neale said: “I would personally like to thank Danny for all the years of service he has given the club, and I wish him well for the future.
“He is a local star who has provided full value for money throughout his stay, and he was one player you knew wouldn’t let you down.
“I understand his reasons for calling time on his professional career, but would like to think he won’t be a stranger and will continue supporting the club.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney added: “Danny has been a model professional, both on and off the field. From a personal perspective, he has been a great bloke to deal with, and he knows he will always be welcome at the Raiders.”
