Sheffield Eagles star announces retirement
Sheffield Eagles hooker James Davey has announced his immediate retirement from the sport.
Davey, 32, has enjoyed two separate stints with the club. He won back-to-back Grand Finals in 2012 and 2013 as well as reaching the top four in 2015.
He later returned to win the 1895 Cup at Wembley in 2019 in a victory over Widnes.
In-between those spells, Davey also helped Batley into the Championship’s top four and the Qualifiers.
He began his career at Wakefield, and also played for Featherstone and Keighley.
James Davey on ‘tough’ decision
“It was a really tough decision,” he told Sheffield Eagles.
“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.”
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Mark Aston pays tribute to retiring star
“This is a big one for us,” Aston 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.”
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