Raleigh calls time on rugby league career

Wakefield Wildcats prop Andy Raleigh has confirmed that he will be retiring from rugby league at the end of the season.

Raleigh has enjoyed a 12-year professional career, after starting to play the game as an eight-year-old.

He played for the Huddersfield Giants at Under-18 and Under-21 levels, before studying for a degree in Geography from the University of Newcastle.

During his time at Newcastle University, he played for the institution’s rugby league team. He also represented North East, England and Great Britain students.

He began his semi-professional career with Sheffield Eagles in 2002, playing 65 games. He later moved to Hull KR, and was a key part of the Robins’ Northern Rail Cup winning side in 2005.

Raleigh joined Huddersfield Giants in 2005, and played 133 games in six years with his hometown club.

In 2012, he moved to Wakefield, where he has played 57 games for the Wildcats. He has played 172 Super League games in total during his career.

“It has been a dream come true to be able to play the sport that I love for a living,” said Raleigh.

“I’ve had some fantastic experiences from playing in Challenge Cup finals to making the play-offs, and met some great people along the way.

“I just felt that the time was right to hang up my boots after 12 great years – as I’m not getting any younger!

“I’ve been extremely lucky, and very grateful, to have a very supportive family, without which I probably wouldn’t have pursued a career in professional rugby.

“I’d also like to thank the fans for their support, especially those that have supported my testimonial events, I really appreciate it.”