Castleford Tigers stalwart to depart at end of season after 19-year association with hometown club: ‘I’ve loved every single minute’

Experienced forward Nathan Massey will leave Castleford Tigers at the end of the season, the Super League club have announced.

The 34-year-old forward linked up with his boyhood club when he was 15, progressing through the academy ranks before making his first team debut in 2007.

Massey, who is currently celebrating his testimonial year, made his 300th appearance for the Tigers in last week’s home win over Hull FC, with the club moving a step closer to securing their Super League status for 2024.

The Castleford-born forward helped the Tigers clinch the League Leaders’ Shield in 2017, featuring in the Super League Grand Final at Old Trafford that season. He also played in their Challenge Cup final appearances in 2014 and 2021.

On departing his beloved club, Massey said: “It’s emotional to be leaving but it’s probably the right time for me and the club to go a different way.

“I’ve loved every single minute at this club, and I am proud to have represented the jersey as I have done.

“I first started at 15 as a chubby, long-haired kid and I am leaving as a 34-year-old, so I’ve got fond memories here.

“I’ve been proud to represent this club for a long time.”

Nathan Massey departs his beloved Castleford with club’s best wishes

Having arrived at the Jungle as a boy and leaves as an established Super League player, Massey departs with the club’s best wishes after serving the Tigers with distinction for 16 years in the first team, and 19 years overall.

Tigers director of rugby operations Danny Wilson said: “He’s had a fantastic career at the club.

“He’s been a really good professional and a good man. When you look at young kids coming through, you want them to model themselves on the behaviours that Massey has shown.

“He’ll forever go down in history as a Castleford legend. He’s had a really good time at the club, and he’s had some success.

“Like everybody, there comes a time when change is needed and for Massey, this is the time for him to explore new ventures. We really wish him the best of luck, and I’m so privileged to have worked with him.

“We’re really grateful for the position that the club are in as a result of what he’s done over the last 16 years at the club.”

Commemoration of Massey’s career with continue on Wednesday night at Wheldon Road when a Rugby League All-Stars squad will take on a Nathan Massey All-Stars side.

Castleford have two games of the regular season remaining against Wigan and Leeds as they look to secure their Super League status for next year.

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