Hull FC prop Scott Taylor to hang up his boots at end of season: ‘I have given it everything and can retire with no regrets’
Hull FC prop Scott Taylor has announced that he will retire from professional rugby league at the end of the season at the age of 32.
The former England international has made more than 300 career appearances for Hull KR, Wigan Warriors, Salford Red Devils and Hull FC.
Taylor, who came through the ranks at Hull KR, won a Challenge Cup and Super League double with Wigan in 2013 before going on to help boyhood club Hull FC win back-to-back Challenge Cups in 2016 and 2017.
The Hull-born front-rower won four caps for England on the international stage, representing his country in the 2017 World Cup after making the Super League Dream Team in 2016.
Taylor will take a short break from the game with his family at the season’s end, and will continue to be involved with the Black and Whites off the field.
On hanging up his boots, Taylor said: “This has been the biggest decision of my career.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed this season, playing big minutes and playing a part in the leadership group, but now feels like the right time for me to finish on a high with the club that me and my family love.
“I would like to thank everyone who has played a part in my rugby league journey, as well as a thank you to the clubs I have had the privilege to represent.
“I’d like to give particular thanks to Adam Pearson (owner) and James Clark (chief executive) for their support during my entire time with my boyhood club, as well as the players, coaches and staff I’ve had the pleasure to work alongside.
“Memories of winning the double with Wigan, my international debut and being part of the back-to-back cup wins at Wembley with my beloved Hull FC is what any young player dreams of – so to be able to have achieved that is very special.
“I owe everything to this sport. It has been a career of many highs and lows which has shaped who I am today.
“I am looking forward to the remainder of my testimonial year, including a testimonial match at the MKM Stadium in February, which feels like the perfect way to bow out.
“Eight years with my boyhood club has been incredible – it’s in my blood. I have given it everything and can retire with no regrets.”
Hull FC chief pays tribute to the retiring Scott Taylor
In 2021, Taylor was named as one of the club’s co-captains, becoming only the third Hull-born player to take captaincy during the Super League era alongside Lee Radford and Danny Houghton.
Taylor was awarded a 12-month testimonial by the Rugby Football League earlier this year, and he will make his final appearance for the club in a testimonial fixture at the MKM Stadium ahead of the new season.
Hull chief executive James Clark said: “On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to congratulate Scott on a fantastic career and thank him for his contribution to Hull FC.
“I’m sure he’ll be remembered as one of the great forwards to represent the club, immortalised amongst the first group of players to lift the Challenge Cup at Wembley.
“The memorable image of Scott’s expression that day as Gareth Ellis lifted the Cup reflects his genuine passion and pride in representing his boyhood team.
“He can look back on his career with tremendous satisfaction at what he has achieved, winning both major titles and representing his country on the biggest stage – whilst earning the notable achievement of 300 professional games.
“For those fortunate to have worked with him, he is an example of a genuine clubman who is proud to represent his club both on and off the field – with his effort and commitment often going unheralded.
“We are thrilled he will continue to have an involvement with us in the future, alongside an exciting new chapter in his life as he develops his own business career, and the opportunity to make many new memories with his young family – who I am sure are very proud of him.
“Scott is a credit to his family, his club and fantastic role model for any player.”
READ NEXT: Former England international Josh Hodgson makes retirement call