After Saturday’s 38th consecutive league win for the 1XV, long-serving player-coach and club legend Matthew Speres announced his retirement from playing rugby.

Originally planning to lace up the boots for one more season, Matt has made the incredibly tough decision to step away from the game following a ruptured Achilles sustained in the final moments of the home win over Keighley. At 38, and with a growing list of injuries, his body has finally called time.

An incredibly versatile forward, comfortable at 2, 7 & 8, Matt’s rugby journey is nothing short of remarkable:
• SA Schools Development (2003)
• Western Province U16 & U18
• Natal Sharks U19/U21
• Skipton RUFC
• Wharfedale RUFC
• Yorkshire squad (Covid-abandoned season)
• And of course, North Ribblesdale RUFC

While we say farewell to Matt the player, we’re buzzing that he’s staying on with the club, focusing on strength & conditioning and continuing his brilliant work with our forwards.

We wish Matt all the best with his recovery and hope he enjoys some well-earned time with wife Becky and daughter Addison. Thank you for everything, Spearsy — and we’ll see you at pre-season!