Michael Lawrence leaves Huddersfield for Championship challenge
Jamaica international Michael Lawrence will end his 16-year association with hometown club Huddersfield in order to join Championship club Bradford.
The 32-year-old has linked up with the Bulls on a two-year contract from the 2023 season. The first year of the contract will be a loan, to allow himself more game time in the Championship with Bradford.
Lawrence scored 52 tries in 324 appearances for the Giants after making his first team debut in 2008.
Lawrence said: “First and foremost I’ve been lucky enough to live out my dream to represent my hometown for so long.
“I’ve made many great memories on and off the field over the past 16 years.
“I’d like to thank Ken (Davy, owner) and Richard (Thewlis, managing director) and all the backroom and performance staff for everything they’ve done for me at the club, my team-mates who I’ve played with who are friends for life and finally the loyal fans who have supported me and the club through thick and thin.
“Now I’m very excited for my new challenge at the Bradford Bulls and wish the giants all the best for the season ahead.”
Huddersfield boss pays tribute to Michael Lawrence
Giants managing director Richard Thewlis said: “There is no doubt whatsoever in my mind that Michael Lawrence leaves our club as a modern day icon of the club and town.
“He has played his entire career with us since joining from Newsome Panthers and has been a role model professional at all times.
“Last year was the first I guess when he simply didn’t get the game time that he’d become accustomed to and there is no doubt that it hurt him however in typical style he battled on and did all he could for the team on and off the field. He has never been anything but a superb professional, it really is that simple.
“The reality now however is that he wants to play week in week out and the opportunity for him to do so has arisen elsewhere and its one I know he is excited about.
“It’s a sad day for many of us at the club who’ve known him so long but one that Michael wants; and one that we will continue to support him in. He and his family know that they will always be welcome back at any time.”
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