On Sunday, veteran centre Jake Webster will take to the field one last time in Keighley and Castleford’s pre-season fixture, at Cougar Park, (kick-off 2pm).
The former New Zealand international has announced he will officially hang up his boots after this game is played, with his focus turning to the Director of Rugby role he has at the Keighley club.
The 40-year-old spent five seasons in the NRL, before making the move to the Betfred Super League in 2013, where he became a much-loved fan favourite at the Castleford Tigers and servant of the game.
Firmly embedding himself into the team, he became an integral part of the Tigers side, helping them to reach a Betfred Challenge Cup Final in 2014 and Grand Final in 2017, as well as securing the League Leaders’ Shield in that memorable year.
The powerful centre has made over 200 Super League career appearances, and since moving on from the Mend-A-Hose Jungle at the end of 2018, Webster joined Bradford Bulls for the 2019 season. It was here he would enjoy a famous win over Leeds Rhinos in the Betfred Challenge Cup competition to reach the quarter-finals, scoring a try in the thrilling sixth-round encounter.
Webster then linked up with Keighley Cougars, contributing to the club as both a player and assistant coach – and now as their new Director of Rugby.
Speaking to Keighley Cougars ahead of Sunday’s pre-season friendly, Webster recognises the emotions present, as his Farewell Game approaches:
“It’s been a long time coming, and it’s starting to hit home a little bit.
“I’m excited but it’s mixed emotions. It’s 20+ years of this (rugby league) being my life, all coming to an end.
“I don’t know how I’m going to feel on the day. It’s been part of my life since I can remember. It’s going to be a tough transition mentally, but to still be involved in rugby league with the opportunity that Keighley have given me in the role of Director of Rugby – it is comforting that I’m still involved in the game.”
Webster is aware that now is finally the right time for him to retire from playing rugby league, but admits that this knowledge doesn’t make the decision any easier:
“It’ll still be hard to not be involved in what happens on the field.
“The body is what is telling me to give it up. The mind is still there but then the body says no. I’ve got a young family and they’ve put up with a lot and they’ve supported me through it all.
“So, I’m happy to go out on my terms and I’m hanging the boots up – and it’s time.”
The Cougars are expecting a bumper crowd on Sunday and Webster is eager for the occasion to be an enjoyable day. Details and tickets for his Farewell Game can be found here, where fans can go and honour the Castleford Tigers and rugby league servant for one final time.
