Sheffield prop Scott Wheeldon to retire at end of season

Sheffield prop Scott Wheeldon will hang up his boots at the end of the season.

The 35-year-old front-rower more than 300 career appearances for Hull FC, Hull KR, London Broncos, Castleford, Featherstone and Sheffield.

Wheeldon was part of the Castleford side that played in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley in 2014.

Wheeldon said: “I’ve been thinking about it from the start of this season.

“I knew before the season started that it’ll probably be my last year to be honest. 

“Last year was a bit funny with COVID so that didn’t really help me, not getting much training and everything being shut. 

“I knew going into the season it’d be tough to get into shape from the get-go.

“At 35-years-old, it’s tough to have a year out at my age while some of the younger lads got straight back into it. 

“I feel like from personal performances this year, they haven’t been where they were in the past so it’s another incentive to call it a day. 

“I’m not the sort of player to drag out another season to pick up some money.” 

Sheffield coach Mark Aston said: “We are deeply saddened to lose Scott, like we are Matty (James) and Rob (Worrincy).

“Wheely is a champion bloke who during his two spells at the club has brought vast experience and knowledge to the squad and been a real asset to us up front but also helping mentor the younger players also. 

“A character of the game who is known and well liked across the various clubs he’s played at, he will be a loss no doubt but he has chosen to retire and we completely support his decision. 

“We wish him all the best with whatever he does next and like every player, he will be welcome back to watch the Eagles in the future.”