Whitehaven have confirmed that Rio McQuistan has decided to step back from the professional game.
Having signed for the club ahead of the 2025 campaign the back rower made 21 appearances scoring one try in his time at The Ortus Rec.
Prior to the signing for the club, and during his time in the chocolate, blue and gold McQuistan has been attempting to manage a chronic injury which the club has been supporting him through and been exploring treatment options.
A club spokesman said: “Unfortunately Rio is needing to explore treatment through the NHS and with the timescales given to him he felt he could not perform at the required level within the Championship week in week out, which all at the club understand has been a difficult decision for him to come to.”
Interim head coach James Newton said: “Rio has been, and still will be, a great asset to the club in the future.
“After assessing all options with his ongoing injury battle we feel it is best for both parties for Rio to step down for a period of time until he seeks further specialist advice.
“Rio realises he needs to be 100% fit to play at Championship level and his honesty is testament to himself.
£He will continue to be a part of the club and I am sure with his dedicated attitude he will be back stronger than ever.”
McQuistan is a former member of the England Community Lions squad and he signed a two-year deal before the current season after an impressive debut season.
He has returned to his former community club Millom and has been named in their side for tomorrow, along with Josh Blinkhorn from Whitehaven on dual registration.
