Former Warrington Wolves and Hull FC second-row Ellis Longstaff has confirmed he has quit the sport at the age of just 21 years old.
It was already confirmed by his latest club Featherstone Rovers that he had left the club and it was believed he was set to pursue opportunities outside the game, but now the back-rower has confirmed on social media that he has indeed left the sport in a heart breaking development.
Longstaff started his career at Warrington Wolves where he was perhaps their breakout star in 2021 as he turned 19 during that season.
But the arrival of Daryl Powell meant he had to look for game time elsewhere and went on loan to Hull FC where he impressed scoring six tries in 10 games, somewhere he was expected to stay in 2023 but instead he briefly joined Salford Red Devils on loan where he made nine appearances prior to joining Featherstone Rovers.
Now though he has left Post Office Road and the sport in general. He confirmed this with the following statement:
“After many years of playing rugby league I’ve made the decision to leave the sport. I would just like to take the time to thank everyone who has been a part of my rugby career, from playing as a kid, to living the dream as a professional, I am grateful for every opportunity the game has given me.
“A big thank you to everyone who has helped me along the way; coaches, backrooom staff, players and most importantly my family if it wasn’t for the sacrifices they had made since I was a young boy I wouldn’t be where I am today.
“It had always been my childhood dream to play professional rugby and I will cherish the memories and friends I have made forever. I am now going to pursue a new opportunity and I’m looking forward to what the future holds.”
The Rovers are likely to begin a recruitment drive to add to their squad after 19 departures ahead of 2024 so far. They have announced the arrival of Wellington Albert for the new 2024 season with the forward returning to the club from London Broncos.
