Hull FC legend Jamie Shaul to call time on playing career: ‘I’ve lived my boyhood dream’
Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix
Hull FC’s Jamie Shaul has confirmed that he will retire at the end of the season after a decade of service to his boyhood club, describing his career as a ‘dream’.
The 31-year-old will forever be remembered by Black and Whites fans for grabbing the match-winning try in a 12-10 triumph over Warrington Wolves back in 2016, sealing their first-ever Wembley win and with it the Challenge Cup.
He would go on to feature the year after as FC lifted the same piece of silverware for a second successive year, beating Wigan Warriors under the arch.
A one-time England international, Shaul now retires content with what he’s achieved in the world of rugby league, and excited for what the future away from the field brings.
Jamie Shaul to retire at the end of 2023
Admitting his retirement has come earlier than necessary physically, Shaul told Hull’s club website it’s the right time for him to step away from the game.
He said: “It’s a decision I made quite a while ago. I feel like it’s a good time to call it a day. I’m really happy with what I have achieved in the game.
“When I signed my first contract, I didn’t think I’d even make an appearance, so to do it for 10 years is special. I used to come and watch this team, and support them as a kid. I’ve lived my boyhood dream.
“It wasn’t an easy decision, but this is the right time for me and my family. I’ll look back on my career with fond memories as I head into the next chapter of my life. Even though my body could handle a few more years, I’m convinced in my decision and haven’t questioned it once since I decided.
“If you speak to any professional player, they’ll tell you its a rollercoaster and it really has been. But looking back now, the only memories I hold onto are happy ones. I’ve met some great people along the way and some lifelong friends too.
“I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved. It’s a lot of hard work to become a professional rugby player and there’s a lot of pressure on you too. I’d like to think I wore my heart on my sleeve and did my bit for the club.”
Born and bred Hull ace part of prestigious ‘200 club’
Full-back Shaul, who has also played on the wing sporadically over the course of his decade-long career, recently brought up 200 appearances for the ‘Airlie Birds’. Only eight others have achieved that feat in the Super League era.
Scoring twice against Wakefield Trinity on debut back in 2013, he grabbed a hat-trick the week after on just his second appearance for the club.
A memorable 2016 campaign saw Hull successful in Super League as well as the Challenge Cup, ending the regular season top of the table, and Shaul would be named in the Dream Team that year alongside five other teammates.
And last year, spending the second half of the season out on loan, the utility helped Wakefield to survival, grabbing one try in five appearances for the Belle Vue outfit. He will retire alongside another club stalwart in Scott Taylor.