Thackeray to go again in 2022

10/10/2021

Sheffield Eagles are delighted to announce Anthony Thackeray has signed a one-year extension.

The current Vice Captain had a brilliant debut season in South Yorkshire during 2019 as he helped Sheffield to 1895 Cup glory with a Man of the Match performance at Wembley. 

With the Eagles now returning to the Steel City permanently, the scrum-half is wanting to hit the ground running at the OLP and lead Sheffield back up the Championship table.

The contract renewal has been aided by great work from the Sheffield Eagles Supporters Association (SESA) Squadbuilder. 

“I am really happy to be staying,” he said. 

“What people may not know is that I signed a contract extension during last season but I did talk to Tubbs about possibly retiring but I also spoke to Ged (Corcoran), Keith (Senior) and a few family members and they all asked whether I’d want to finish with how this year has gone.

“It isn’t quite on my terms with suffering the injury in one of the last games, having COVID and also playing away from our own ground wasn’t too enjoyable. 

“I am going to play on for another season, I want to finish on my terms and hopefully have a great year as we now have our home back!” 

Thackeray also paid tribute to SESA’s Squadbuilder and highlighted the importance behind having a Supporters Association. 

“It doesn’t get mentioned too much but the fans and their Squadbuilders help a club massively,” 

“Especially for a club like Sheffield, it certainly doesn’t go unnoticed and they probably don’t get the thanks they deserve. 

“Their work is appreciated and I can’t wait to see them all down at the OLP in 2022.” 

Eagles Director of Rugby Mark Aston is pleased to have his talisman half-back remaining at the club for another season, adding: “He has been one of our most consistent performers as he scores tries but also has a great attacking threat,” 

“He is invaluable to this rebuild process. We need someone that has been around the place for a year or two and hopefully Thacks is that man. 

“He is in immaculate condition, he prides himself in his physique so we don’t need to worry on that front.”

Steve Dalton, SESA Chair, also commented: "SESA is delighted that the efforts by all the fans who have contributed to the Squadbuilder Project have managed to help secure Anthony Thackeray’s services for another year,” 

“This is exactly the reason Squadbuilder was started, to help build a quality playing squad, and the retention of a player of Anthony’s calibre is a great boost.

“Anyone wishing to get involved in Squadbuilder can find details of how to sign up on www.sesa.org.uk, and monthly contributions start from as little as £5"

By Dan Fowler, photo by Alex Coleman