Harlequins RL captain Rob Purdham decides to leave club after 2011 Super League season
London based English rugby league side, Harlequins Rugby League Football Club (Harlequins RL), has announced that their captain and back row forwards’ player, Rob Purdham, will part ways with the club at the end of the season. Officials at the club have
confirmed the news in a statement released on their website on Friday, July 22.
According club resources, Purdham is the first player from London to have played in the Super League.
The White Haven native has confirmed that he is leaving the club because of family obligations. He said, “I am sorry to announce that I will be leaving London at the end of the season to return to Cumbria for family reasons.”
The 31-year-old Purdham has thanked the club’s management, coaching staff and the supporters for their love and motivation. He expressed his hope that he will perform well in the remaining games of the season for the club and make the moment memorable.
Harlequin RL head coach, Rob Powell, has expressed his disappointment on losing a player of Purdham’s calibre. He added that Purdham’s exit from the club will create a “big void for the club to fill.”
Purdham joined Harlequins RL in the start of the 2006 season and he has played 113 games for the Harlequins and has scored 333 points, which comprised 18 tries, 130 goals and a field goal.
Powell further added, “We fully support his decision to move back to Cumbria and wish him and his wife Sarah all the best for the future.”
Harlequins RL chairman, David Hughes, has expressed his displeasure on the exit of Purdham. However, he has paid tribute to Purdham’s contribution to Harlequins RL and earlier for London Broncos.
Hughes has also praised Purdham’s leadership skills, personal and professional characteristics. He expressed his disappointment on the different personal issues and injuries faced by Purdham in recent years. Hughes further added, “Rob's a super captain and
a super character, I wish we had 13 like him. We wish him all the best. I hope he keeps in touch with the club.”
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