Former Wakefield Trinity and current Championship hooker retires due to personal reasons

Sheffield Eagles have announce the immediate retirement of former Wakefield Trinity hooker James Davey.

Davey 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.

Davey came through the ranks at Wakefield Trinity, playing 19 games between 2009 and 2012 before moving onto the Championship.

Discussing his retirement and the memories he has made while playing for the Eagles, 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.”