Former Wigan and Leigh forward Tom Spencer announces retirement, aged 31

Former Wigan and Leigh forward and current Oldham prop Tom Spencer has announced his retirement from the sport, aged 31. 

Spencer has amassed nearly 200 senior games in a 13-year career, having made his professional debut with the Warriors in 2012.

The forward featured for the Centurions across four spells, including two permanently. He went on to make more than 100 appearances for the club.

He also enjoyed spells at London Broncos and Swinton Lions and was ever-present for Oldham in 2022. Spencer featured from the bench in the Million Pound game against Toronto in Canada, which Broncos won 4-2 to return to Super League.

He is currently studying sports science at UCLAN in Preston and runs a gym in Wigan alongside former Leigh team-mate Jamie Acton.

Tom Spencer: ‘I have memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life’

Spencer said: “All good things come to an end. I’m very excited about this new chapter in my life. I’ve had a great time in rugby league. I have memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

“I would like to thank all the clubs I’ve been with for everything they’ve done for me and for giving me some wonderful opportunities.”

Oldham coach Stuart Littler added: “Tom and I go back a long way and I think a lot of him, both as a player and a friend.

“In some respects it’s a sad day for me because we didn’t want to lose Tom. But these things happen in sport. We wish him well in whatever direction his life now takes him.”

PODCAST: Gil Dudson on Catalans red mist, winning Wigan, World Cup fears and reigniting Warrington

FOLLOW: Keep up with all the latest on the Love Rugby League mobile app and podcast