Stephenson calls it a day
20th of November 2006
Former Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Wigan Warriors and London Broncos prop Francis Stephenson has announced his retirement at the age of 30 but will stay with newly-promoted Hull KR after joining the backroom staff.
Stephenson, who joined Rovers after leaving the Broncos 12 months ago, has decided to hang up his boots after undergoing Achilles tendon surgery in September.
‚"On reflection, Rovers need 25 fit players this year on the field and, in all fairness, my body wouldn't stand up to that,‚" he said.
‚"So, by stepping down from playing it gives the club the best chance of staying in the Super League.
‚"It's a special year for the club and very exciting times and I'm just pleased to be a part of that.‚"
Robins head coach Justin Morgan said: ‚"It was a tough call for Francis to make because it's a big decision to call it a day as a player but he's put the club first and I'm delighted that he's joining my backroom team.‚"
Meanwhile, former Australia Test centre Michael de Vere, 29, who was released by Huddersfield Giants after two seasons in engage Super League, has confirmed his retirement following his appointment as development officer at his old club Brisbane Broncos.
Stephenson, who joined Rovers after leaving the Broncos 12 months ago, has decided to hang up his boots after undergoing Achilles tendon surgery in September.
‚"On reflection, Rovers need 25 fit players this year on the field and, in all fairness, my body wouldn't stand up to that,‚" he said.
‚"So, by stepping down from playing it gives the club the best chance of staying in the Super League.
‚"It's a special year for the club and very exciting times and I'm just pleased to be a part of that.‚"
Robins head coach Justin Morgan said: ‚"It was a tough call for Francis to make because it's a big decision to call it a day as a player but he's put the club first and I'm delighted that he's joining my backroom team.‚"
Meanwhile, former Australia Test centre Michael de Vere, 29, who was released by Huddersfield Giants after two seasons in engage Super League, has confirmed his retirement following his appointment as development officer at his old club Brisbane Broncos.
