21-year-old former Warrington Wolves player leaves rugby league
Ellis Longstaff, a graduate of the WARRINGTON Wolves programme, has left rugby league.
The 21-year-old, who earlier this year signed a permanent contract to play for Featherstone Rovers in the Championship, announced the news on his Instagram page and stated that he would now be going to “pursue a new opportunity.”
In addition to being capped by the England Knights throughout his tenure with The Wire, where he earned 15 senior appearances after making his debut in 2020, Longstaff established himself as one of the nation’s most promising young stars.
But under Daryl Powell, he lost ground in the hierarchy and had an outstanding last season on loan with Hull FC, where he scored six tries in ten games.
He was granted permission to play with the Salford Red Devils for the entire 2023 season, although he only made seven appearances before relocating to Featherstone in the middle of the campaign.
“I’ve decided to quit rugby league after many years of playing,” Longstaff posted on social media.
“I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported me during my rugby career. From playing as a child to realising my ambition as a professional, I am appreciative of all the opportunities the game has me.
“I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported me throughout the years: my family, coaches, backroom crew, players, and most importantly, myself. Without their sacrifices since I was a young child, I would not be where I am today.
“I will always treasure the memories and friends I have created, as playing professional rugby has always been my boyhood goal.
“I’m excited for what lies ahead and I’m going to seize this new opportunity.”
