Halifax’s Ambler calls time on career

Halifax RLFC have agreed to mutually terminate Luke Ambler’s playing contract with the club.

Ambler’s interests outside the game, including his work with the Andy’s Man Club initiative – a place for men to come together in a safe environment to talk about issues/problems they have faced or are currently facing – means he can no longer devote the time needed to continue in rugby league.

Club chairman, Michael Steele, said: “Luke has been a model professional and an outstanding member of the Halifax first team squad during the five years he has spent with the club.

“He leaves with our very best wishes, and if his circumstances permit a return to rugby league, I sincerely hope it will be with Halifax.

“However, we understand that the responsibility he feels towards his family, the development of his business interests to support them, and the important voluntary work he undertakes with his remarkable ‘Andy’s Mans Club’ initiative combine to make it impossible for him to devote the time and single-mindedness which is essential to perform at his own high standards.

“It is in that context that the club has granted his request to be released from his contract.

Ambler added: “I leave the Halifax club on the very best of terms, and, who knows, I may be back. I am a proud Halifax lad, who has lived the dream of wearing the iconic blue and white hoops.

“Once I arrived at this club, I have never wanted to play anywhere else. In recent months it has been hard to fulfil the training regime, and at the moment, I can only see it becoming harder.

“I am grateful to the club for the five years and for the way they have supported me and enabled me to leave on my terms.”