Oliver Holmes has posted a farewell message on social media following his retirement announcement on Wednesday night. The back rower placed just one game for Hull FC, with a knee injury sidelining him this season.
Holmes went for surgery and had a series of injections to try and correct the issue, but to no avail. He made his first and only appearance for the club against York Acorn in the Challenge Cup back in February.
Before that, Holmes was a cup winner with Leigh Leopards in 2023, also winning the 2017 Super League League Leaders Shield with hometown outfit Castleford Tigers – the club where he spent the majority of his career. He had one season with Warrington in 2022.
Calling time on a 15-year career, Holmes made over 280 appearances, also representing England in 2018.
Posting on his Instagram page, the now former forward wrote: “It’s not over till the fat lady sings, unfortunately, she’s singing. The time has come to call time on my career, the mind still wanted it, but the body couldn’t do it anymore.
“Just a lad from Normy who got to live out his childhood dream for over 15 years! What more could you ask for? I’ve made some unbelievable memories over the years, made a lot of friends for life and learnt a whole lot along the way, and I wouldn’t change a thing!
“All athletes want to be able to retire on their own terms, and that’s the hardest part with that being taken away, but such is life and sport. Time to take some time off and take stock before starting the next chapter. It’s been one hell of a ride! Peace out.”
Holmes’ Hull FC teammates, and indeed those from his former clubs, replied to his post aplenty. Zak Hardaker, who won the cup with Holmes at Leigh, wrote: “Loved being on part of the journey with you brother. Love always my mate.”
John Asiata wrote: “Congrats my guy on the career brother. It’s been a pleasure.” Jordan Rapana added: “Some man! Congrats on one hell of an innings my bro! Enjoy retirement and plenty of golf.”
Elsewhere, former Hull KR back Ben Cockayne, wrote: “Congratulations colonel mustard. Not many can boast on the scene as a teenager and do it as consistently as you did, brother. Proud of you mate, now whip out the mustard and enjoy yourself.” Leigh winger Josh Charnley added: “Grateful to grace the field with you. All the best bro.”
But perhaps the one that sums Holmes up the most was Hull FC Director Gareth Ellis, who wrote: “Some great comments Oggy, just shows what a great teammate you were.”