Former Hull FC and Hull KR outside-back Ben Crooks has confirmed his retirement following the conclusion of Halifax Panthers’ Championship campaign.
Crooks has called time on his career at the age of 33 after three-and-a-half years with Halifax in the second tier.
The Pontefract-born centre or winger made 278 career appearances, having made his professional debut with Hull FC in 2012 after progressing through the club’s youth system.
He enjoyed his breakthrough season the following year, earning a place in the 2013 Super League Dream Team and being named the competition’s Young Player of the Year.
Crooks later joined Hull KR in 2018, scoring 37 tries in 80 appearances for the club between 2018 and 2022.
He also represented Doncaster, Castleford, Leigh and Keighley during his career, leaving the Cougars in 2023 for a mid-season move to Halifax.
Crooks spent a year in Australia during his career but did not make an NRL appearance for Parramatta Eels, instead featuring in the New South Wales Cup.
He announced his retirement on social media with a picture of his playing shirt and boots.
“What a ride it’s been, but it’s time to get off,” he wrote.
His final professional appearance came for Halifax against Keighley over the weekend, in the final round of the regular Championship season.
Meanwhile, Joe Arundel has also announced his retirement following a year out of the game.
The 35-year-old made his debut for Castleford Tigers against Huddersfield Giants in 2008, aged just 16.
He made 18 appearances for Hull FC across two seasons, as well as stints at Doncaster, Bradford, Wakefield, Halifax and Batley.
Posting on Instagram, he wrote: “After having some time away from the sport, the time has finally come to retire from rugby league.
“Since the age of six, it’s all I’ve ever wanted to do. I truly lived my dream.
“Making my Super League debut at just 16 for my hometown club is something some people only ever dream about, let alone going on to play the sport I love for nearly 20 years.
“To all my team-mates, coaches, staff, and supporters at every club I’ve been a part of, thank you. Rugby has taken me to places I never imagined, given me memories I’ll cherish forever, and lifelong friends.
“Mum and Dad, thank you for allowing me to chase my dream. The early mornings, cold nights, long drives, and endless support.
“Without everything you did for me, none of this would have been possible. I’ll never be able to thank you enough.
“And to my wife, Hannah. You’ve been there right from the beginning. You’ve lived every high and every low right alongside me, and made sacrifices that people will never see.
“You’ve been my rock through injuries, setbacks, tough decisions, and moments of doubt, always believing in me and putting me and my career first.
“Thank you for believing in me, standing by me, and supporting me through every step of this journey.
“Without you, I couldn’t have done what I’ve been lucky enough to do.”