Rugby league legend Eorl Crabtree is making a comeback as a player – almost 10 years since he hung up his boots.
Big Eorl, who played 400 games for Huddersfield Giants, is also switching codes to turn out for Huddersfield RUFC.
Even though he’s getting back on the pitch, it’s far from a return to professional sport for the 6ft 6in 20 stone former prop.
For Eorl, who celebrates his 43rd birthday in October, it’s all about playing with a few mates and enjoying the social side of the sport.
Eorl, whose day job is managing director of Birmingham-based RL club Midlands Hurricanes, caused a stir when he announced his comeback on social media – but in reality it’s a relaxed, fun return to a sport he fell out of love with a decade ago.
“It’s not about being a professional sportsman anymore, it’s about enjoying myself playing with a few mates in a social environment,” said Eorl.
“I retired because I fell out of love with rugby but now I’m enjoying life, I’m fit and healthy and I’m in a really good place.
“I’ve been playing touch and pass for a while down at Huddersfield RUFC and I wanted to challenge myself and see how I feel and take it from there.”
Ken Davy made a presentation to club legend Eorl Crabtree when he moved on after 25 years at the Giants
It’s not that Eorl needs to build his fitness or that he’s just been lounging in front of the telly. He’s currently in training to run a 50-mile ultra-marathon in April next year and he’s running 10 miles three times a week.
Eorl’s coach – and inspiration – is good pal Mel Sykes, an ultra-marathon runner who fought her way back to health after brain surgery.
Eorl hasn’t even run a standard 26-mile marathon before and is looking forward to the ultra challenge so playing rugby union with a few mates shouldn’t hold too many fears.
“It’s 10 years since I played rugby competitively but I’m really healthy and motivated and while I’m still young enough I wanted to challenge myself by playing again,” said Eorl.
“I played rugby union for Yorkshire up to being 16 and then I got signed by the Giants and that’s why I took that path.
“I do want to stay away from rugby league as I feel I’ve done that but I’ve always been a fan of both codes. I just need to learn the new rules!”
Eorl isn’t expecting to play in the first XV and hasn’t even told Huddersfield RUFC head coach Danny Brough – a big mate and fellow Giants and RL legend – that he’s pulling his boots on again.
“I suppose I might bump into him at some point,” grinned Eorl.
As it stands Eorl has put his name forward for Field’s new third team this weekend – but says he’s not certain to be picked.
He’s taking nothing for granted but knows his competitive nature might kick in once he’s back playing.
“I’m just looking to play social rugby, have some fun and raise the profile of Huddersfield RUFC,” said Eorl.
“I’m happy in the thirds but maybe I can step up to the seconds if they need me or if I’m up to it. Let’s just see what happens.”
Eorl wants to help Huddersfield RUFC which is now looking to grow off the field and develop young players and provide a pathway to the first team.
“It’s a great club. The structure is really good and the setting of Lockwood Park with the backdrop of the viaduct is fantastic.”
Huddersfield RUFC under 14s
Eorl, who spent 25 years at the Giants after becoming club ambassador following his retirement as a player in 2016, still has pulling power when it comes to sponsorship.
Within hours of asking for sponsorship for his playing return, Eorl was inundated and accepted an offer from his friends at JTD Building Supplies in Brockholes.
If selected, Eorl’s first game could be at Lockwood Park on Saturday September 6 (3pm) against Bradford Salem.
His boss – Midlands Hurricanes owner and Huddersfield businessman Mike Lomas – might also be playing.
Spectators are welcome at Lockwood Park but Eorl is keen to dampen expectations.
“We’re just some mates having fun and enjoying a game of rugby,” he said. “We’re almost a pub team!”
Huddersfield RUFC first XV also kick off the new season on Saturday, away at Birkenhead-based Anselmians in Regional 1 North West. Last season Field finished runners-up in Regional 1 North East.
