KAVANAGH ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT FROM RUGBY LEAGUE

Halifax Panthers can confirm that Ben Kavanagh has announced his retirement from Rugby League after a 17 year career in the game which saw him make 398 first team appearances.

A Siddal junior product, 36 year old Kavanagh came through the academy system at Wigan Warriors before making his professional debut for Widnes Vikings back in 2008. A Scotland International with 21 caps, Kavanagh hangs up his boots after 6 seasons with his hometown club. He enjoyed a fruitful spell at The Shay, making 129 appearances for Halifax scoring 27 tries, playing a big part in our AB Sundecks 1895 Cup Final triumph at Wembley in 2023.

He enjoyed spells with Hull Kingston Rovers, Bradford Bulls, Wakefield Trinity and Workington before joining his hometown club in 2019, helping Fax to a Betfred Challenge Cup Semi Final in his first season at The Shay.

But now Kavanagh has decided to call time on his glittering career.

Confirming the announcement, Kavanagh said: “The Rugby League Rollercoaster has finally come to an end. I’ve had nearly 20 years in the game, from moving to Wigan at 15 years old and living with a foster family, to representing Wigan, Widnes, Wakefield, Bradford, Hull KR and Halifax, as well as 20+ caps for Scotland, playing in two World Cups.”

“I’ve enjoyed my last 5 years at the club, getting to play with other lads from Halifax who love playing for the badge. I had some of my best years down at The Shay, playing under Simon Grix who got the best out of me as a player. I got to represent my hometown club at Wembley and lift the cup in front of my family which was and always will be a proud moment for me.”

“I’d like to thank the Fax Supporters Trust for sponsoring me last season, they do a lot to bring money into the club which is great to see. Now I turn my focus to the next chapter of my career away from Rugby. Thanks for the support.”

We’d like to wish Ben all the very best of luck for the future and thank him for all his efforts during his time in a Halifax shirt. You’ll always be welcome down at The Shay. Once a blue, always a blue.

#KavanaghRetires #RugbyLeague #ThankYouKav

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