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York rugby league stalwart ADAM ENDERSBY has hung up his boots after a career that spanned five decades.
Endersby, who turned 40 in January, led York Acorn against St Helens-based Pilkington Recs at Thanet Road in their final game of the season.
Acorn beat Pilkington 26-18, avoiding relegation and securing their place in the National Conference League Premier League next season.
“It was a tough game, but we fought hard, put in a great performance and managed to stay in the Premier League,” Endersby enthused.
“It’s an amazing feeling to have helped the team stay on their feet and come out this high.”
Endersby also had spells with professional clubs Gateshead Thunder and York City Knights, making five appearances for York in 2007 and 2008, as well as fellow amateur clubs Eastmoor Dragons and Oulton in the NCL Premier League.
“Adam has been an absolute stalwart of rugby league, and the way he has transformed and adapted his game to the modern way has been nothing short of phenomenal,” said York Acorn manager Josh Mortimer.
“His work rate is top class, he would play every game every week and take every run if I let him. He is consistently at the top of the litter stats and has been for years.
“I have the utmost respect for the way he plays the game and how he is as a person off the pitch.”
York Acorn chairman Mick Lumby said: “Adam has been a mainstay of this club for many years and his commitment both on and off the pitch has won him admirers throughout the rugby community.
“His dedication to staying in shape to play this demanding sport is to be applauded. His performances and dynamic attitude on and off the pitch have earned him numerous accolades and international call-ups.
Born into a family of rugby league fans, with his father and uncles playing at a decent level, Endersby began his career at Sharlstone Rovers aged seven, then at York Acorn when his family moved to York at the age of 12.
He credits his longevity in the game to taking care of himself. He is putting the knowledge he has gained in exercise and nutrition over the years into his new career – as a personal trainer.
“As I got older, I focused on good nutrition, a good night’s sleep, and regular physical activity,” Endersby said.
“You can’t get away with a party lifestyle if you want to play rugby at my age.”
“It’s really satisfying for me to use the expertise I’ve gained during my rugby league career to help others improve.”
Adam won’t be leaving York Acorn altogether as he now coaches the Under-16 team, which his son Theo plays for. His youngest son, Zayn, eight, has also started playing rugby league.
When asked if he was retiring for good, Endersby replied: “Never say never, I might come back for a friendly.”
Endersby can be contacted at [email protected] by those interested in improving their health and fitness.
