Bob Beswick announces retirement
Former Toronto Wolfpack and Ireland international hooker Bob Beswick has announced his retirement from rugby league at the age of 36.
Revealing his decision on Twitter, Beswick’s decision comes after current club Newcastle opted to go full-time from 2022.
His last game was the Thunder’s final day 82-12 defeat to Toulouse in September.
TOON ARMY: Newcastle is a club on the rise, says Bob Beswick
He said: “The time has come to hang up my boots.
“It wasn’t planned for Saturday 18th September to be where it ended, but that’s sport.
“I’m so thankful that my mum, dad, amazing girlfriend Dom and my daughter Isla made the trip.
“I have had the pleasure of working with incredible coaches, volunteers, parents and team mates that I cannot begin to thank enough.
The time has come 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/PjgSmsdr8o
— Bob Beswick (@bobbeswick_) October 24, 2021
“There is something unique about the sport of rugby league and I believe it has given me far more than I can ever give back.
“During my career, I’ve been fortunate enough to travel the world doing something I love for the better part of 20 years.
“I’ve experienced both the highs, and life changing lows along the way, while forming friendships that will last a lifetime.
“I am as equally content with my achievements and experiences as I am excited for the future off the field.”
Beswick started his career at hometown club Wigan, making 22 first team appearances, before moving on to Widnes.
He was part of the Vikings team that reached successive National League 1 Grand Finals.
Three seasons at Halifax followed before he made more than 100 appearances for Leigh.
In 2017, he was part of the inaugural Toronto side, making 49 appearances.
EXPANSIONIST: Bob Beswick: Future looks good for rugby league in Ireland
Beswick won 25 caps for Ireland and played for them at three World Cups.
He won the Championship title with Leigh in both 2014 and 2015, and was part of Toronto’s Championship winning side of 2019.
