Retiring Oulton legend Adrian Holdsworth reflects on 20-year career and bright future ahead

Retirement comes to every player. For some, it happens in front of a few spectators, for others, it happens on the big stage, a Grand Final.

For two decades, Adrian Holdsworth has been a cornerstone of Oulton Raiders. When the final whistle sounded on Oulton’s 23-0 National Leagues Division One Grand Final defeat to East Leeds, it brought an end not just to a gruelling season, but to a remarkable 20-year career on the pitch.

"It hurts now. It will probably hurt for a few days...but playing in a Grand Final for your hometown club that you’ve played 20 years for, at the home of the Super League Champions, I couldn’t have really asked for a better finish." Holdsworth said.

Reflecting on the emotions of his final bow, the 38-year-old centre admitted that while the defeat stings, the journey to get there made every moment worth it.

"Really mixed emotions. The end’s been coming for a while," Holdsworth said. "We’ve been playing knockout football for about six weeks, so every week has felt like, 'you know, this might be it.' But the form that the guys have been on, especially this second half of the year, every week it’s been such a pleasure to play with the boys."

Oulton caught East Leeds on the back foot early in the match, showcasing their signature fast-paced, expansive style of play. Although East Leeds’ eventually took control of the contest, Holdsworth takes immense pride in how far the squad has come after a difficult start to the campaign.

"It was just a bridge too far today, we just didn’t quite have it in us to win," he conceded. "I mean, I’m the exception to the rule at 38, I bring up the average age of the back line! But they play some really good football. They’re not afraid to move it around and they play at pace."

"Last year we got relegated, and then it was only because of what happened to Ince Rose Bridge that we got back in. We had a bit of a shaky start to the season, but the difference now is confidence. These lads are playing with a load of confidence and they should take that into next year."

Despite the outcome, Holdsworth emphasised that the squad intends to hold their heads high and celebrate their achievements.

"We will have a celebration because we have had a good season - a good celebration tonight and maybe tomorrow as well," he smiled. "We will enjoy it because we have a lot to be proud of this year."

With his boots officially hung up, Holdsworth looks forward to stepping into his new role as a supporter, confident that Oulton’s promising young core will thrive in the coming years.

"It is a young group that we’ve got. I won’t be there, but I think they will go well next year and I will be enjoying it from the other side - hopefully with a nice cold beer."

Before signing off on his playing career, the veteran centre offered a final heartfelt message to fans, and anyone considering stepping onto the field in the community game:

"Get involved with your local community club - you won’t regret it."

By Dave Parkinson

Photo Credit: Shot by Bamboo