James Davey announces immediate retirement

07/02/2022

Sheffield Eagles can announce the immediate retirement of hooker James Davey.

Davey has enjoyed two separate stints with the club; winning back-to-back Grand Finals in 2012 and 2013 as well as reaching the top four in 2015 before returning to win the 1895 Cup at Wembley in 2019.

In-between those spells, Davey also helped Batley Bulldogs into the Championship’s top four and the ‘Qualifiers’, in which the West Yorkshire club played against Super League sides including the likes of Leeds Rhinos and Huddersfield Giants.

Lethal with a quick play-the-ball at his disposal, Davey has been a consistent performer and will be sorely missed on and off the field. 

Discussing his retirement and the memories he has made while playing in the Red and Gold, Davey said: “It was a really tough decision,” 

“It is something I’ve been thinking about for a while and during pre-season my electrical business has taken off a bit.

“I’ve not been seeing my kids as much either so that’s why I think now is the right time.

“I’ve had some really good stints after having my first Eagles game midway through 2012; winning back-to-back Championships, the top four finish in 2015 and the victory at Wembley. 

“I’ve loved every minute of it.” 

Mark Aston paid tribute to Davey, who he has had a friendship with ever since the hooker first signed for the club in 2012. 

“This is a big one for us,” he said. 

“His work-life balance wasn’t right and he feels now is the right time, with his business going through the roof. 

“It (the win over Bulls) is a great way to send him off. 

“He has been brilliant around the place and he will definitely be missed by all of the lads. 

“He was a major part of the successful teams we have had at the Eagles in recent years and we’re looking forward to welcoming him to the OLP when the construction has finished and we start playing games there.” 

By Dan Fowler, photo by Alex Coleman