Salford Red Devils man Ben Hellewell has announced his immediate retirement from the sport of rugby league. The 33-year-old took to social media to confirm the decision to hang up his boots at the age of 33, citing the need for a full hip replacement.
It brings an end to a career that has seen Hellewell play 270 times, including the 22 caps he has picked up for Scotland over the course of his career.
The Yorkshireman started his journey into the professional game with Bradford Bulls, his hometown club, before making the switch to Warrington Wolves in 2011. He never made an appearance for the Wire, though, with his only game time coming on loan at York City Knights and Barrow Raiders.
He joined Featherstone Rovers for the first time in 2013, with a spell on loan at Dewsbury Rams coming along the way before he moved on to fully make his name at London Broncos. Hellewell, who spent the early years of his career as a back before transitioning into the pack, made 112 appearances for the Broncos, scoring 45 tries.
He had a brief spell with Sheffield Eagles before joining Leigh Leopards in 2020. Another stint with Featherstone came in 2022 before he made the switch to Super League Salford permanently in 2023, following an initial loan the previous year.
In his three seasons at Salford, he has made 31 appearances, with four tries coming along the way. He’s made just four outings for the club this year with his last professional appearance coming in May when the Red Devils were hammered 54-0 by Hull KR at Magic Weekend.
Salford Red Devils’ Ben Hellewell confirms retirement
Taking to social media to make his announcement, he wrote: “After 16 years, nearly 300 games, 3 World Cups, and the honour of wearing the Scotland jersey, it’s time to hang up the boots.
“A full hip replacement means the body’s calling it before the heart is ready, but what a journey it’s been.
“It’s been one hell of a chapter. Bruises that told better stories than I could, teammates who feel more like family, and memories I’ll still be boring people with in 30 years time.
“I’m beyond grateful to my family for their support through every game from amateur to professional in every season. To my wife, thank you for standing by me through the highs and the lows, the wins and the injuries. Having my little sideline supporters my girls cheering me on has been the best thing of all.
“Thanks to my teammates and coaches who have helped me through my career.
“On to the next chapter.”
