BATLEY BULLDOGS prop Adam Gledhill has called time on his career after more than a decade of service to the club.
The 32-year-old who made his debut in 2014 had been set to go into another season, and came off the bench during the Boxing Day warm-up win at Dewsbury Rams, but says increased job demands mean he can’t commit to the degree required.
Gledhill featured 19 times last year and made 264 appearances in all, scoring 29 tries.
He crossed in the 44-12 Championship Grand Final loss at Leigh Leopards (then Centurions) in 2022 and the following year, played in the 12-10 1895 Cup final defeat by Halifax Panthers at Wembley.
Gledhill was also involved when Batley made the old-style Super 8s Qualifiers in 2016, facing Super League sides Hull KR, Huddersfield Giants, Leeds Rhinos and Salford Red Devils.
He played under five coaches in John Kear, Matt Diskin, Craig Lingard, Mark Moxon and now James Ford, and said: “It’s been great to work with them all.
“I’d like to thank all the players, there are too many to mention individually, and especially (chairman) Kevin Nicholas, who has helped me in so many ways over the years.
“I’ve retired with a heavy heart, but it’s been on my mind for quite some time, and with being busier at work, I can’t commit sufficiently, so to stay on would be unfair on the other players, the coach, who has been great with me, and the club.
“I have some memories for life – scoring in a grand final and playing at Wembley, which is every little boy’s dream – and I will still be supporting the lads from the sidelines. I think Batley are in a good place.”
Ford said: “We’re all very sorry to see Adam go. He’s been such a valued part of this team and will be missed very much.
“He has handled his departure with real grace, and we fully respect and support his decision, and wish him nothing but the best.”
Nicholas said: “Adam has been an absolutely outstanding player for this club. He’s totally underrated in the Championship.”