Leeds forward Keith Galloway retires from elite level Rugby League
Keith Galloway has left Leeds Rhinos with immediate effect after deciding to retire from the elite level of the game.
The 32-year-old is currently recovering from an Achilles injury which he suffered last season, having joined the Rhinos from Wests Tigers in 2016.
Galloway enjoyed a good first season in Super League but suffered an unfortunate Achilles tendon rupture in the penultimate game of the season. He recovered from that injury in 2017 only to suffer another season ending Achilles injury in July.
On his decision to retire, Galloway said: “It has been a tough decision but I know it is the right one for me and my family. Despite my two major injuries at the Rhinos, I have loved being part of this fantastic club. I have made friendships that will last forever and I have enjoyed living in Leeds. The time is right for me to move onto the next chapter of my life. I haven’t decided yet if I will play on at some level, if possible I would like to finish my time on the field on my terms but that will not be as a full-time professional now as I look towards a career after rugby.
“I would like to thank Gary Hetherington and Brian McDermott for giving me the chance to play for Leeds Rhinos and all our backroom staff and players who have supported me throughout my time at the club. I will be backing the boys from here in Australia and will always remain a Rhino.”
Brian McDermott, Rhinos head coach, said: “Keith was able to come and speak to the boys himself whilst we were in Melbourne and it was important for him to do that.
“He has been a fantastic member of our squad over the last three years. Obviously having suffered two big injuries, you can talk about how he has dealt with adversity and been a lesson for all our squad in that sense but more than that, his quality on the field should not be underestimated.
“We are sad to see him go but he leaves with our best wishes for the future with his young family back home in Australia.”
Australian club Oakdale Workers have shared pictures of Galloway on social media, claiming to have signed the former Australia and New South Wales representative.
