Corey Makelim departs Sheffield to return home

Drew Darbyshire 07 May 2020 10:23 AM

Sheffield utility Corey Makelim has left the club to return to Australia with his partner.

The USA international joined the Eagles in 2018, scoring 10 tries in 43 games for the club. He also helped Sheffield win the inaugural 1895 Cup at Wembley last season.

Makelim said: “My partner and I had to make the difficult decision to go home due to a number of reasons that are out of our control and also feeling home sick through this time.

“I’d like to thank Tubbs (Mark Aston, coach) for giving me the opportunity to come over here and be a part of the Eagles in 2018.

“Big thanks to the boys and backroom staff for making my stay here memorable and I have definitely made friends for life.

“Thanks also to the Claydon family for not only their sponsorship but their ongoing support and treating my partner and I like family.

“And finally a huge thank you to all the fans that made my partner and I feel welcome and our stay here a lot easier.

“Wembley was certainly my highlight – an unreal experience that I will cherish forever. I feel very grateful that I was able to experience this with everyone that was involved. Thanks again, stay safe everyone and we’ll miss you all.”

Sheffield coach Mark Aston added: “Of course we are deeply saddened to be losing Corey, but we are fully behind his decision.

“We’ve spoken in length about this over the past few weeks and it’s been a difficult time for him so completely understand why he’s chosen to head home.

“His partner is now out of work; they are missing their families back home and we can’t give a definitive date when lockdown will end so have no real idea when training and playing will recommence.

“He would be welcome back with open arms and hopefully if he wishes to do so he can carry on playing rugby league to a good standard back in Australia and on the international stage for America.”

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