Here we go. After almost 250 games playing for the club I have always supported and dreamed of playing for, this could be my last game at the Salford Stadium as a Shark.
It feels pretty surreal to be honest and I know I’ll feel emotional running out in front of all of you all for, possibly, the last time. I say possibly because we’d love to give you a home semi-final. But that’s for another day.
I’ve grown up supporting this club and to even play one game was genuinely a dream come true. From being a ball-boy, to playing in the academy, to making my debut, it’s been amazing and I promise you, I don’t take it for granted for one second. I’ll always be a Sale Sharks supporter and the decision to leave has been a really tough one for not just me, but my whole family. But the time is right to take on a new challenge.
It’s so tough to leave a brilliant group of lads behind. I’ve played with some amazing players but this group is as good as any. I’ve built up some amazing relationships and I know they’re friendships that will continue wherever we’re all playing.
I’m leaving a club that’s really on the up and I’ve got no doubt that we’ll go on to win plenty of trophies in the next few years. I can’t wait to watch it all as a fan. The club has changed so much in the years I’ve been here and we’ve become a proper powerhouse. I’m so proud to have played a small part in that.
I can remember walking into the dressing room for the first time as a teenager and I was awe-struck. I was trying to be polite and stay out of the way but I realised very quickly that these guys who I’d watched and idolised were actually really normal and very humble and down to earth. Now I have the pleasure to call those lads my mates. That’s the best bit about rugby isn’t it? Whatever level you play at, you make friends that last forever.
I’ve been lucky enough to share some incredible moments with you all. I remember my first try against Northampton after a nice little chip and chase, winning the Premiership Cup was brilliant and that try against Toulon was one I’ll never forget.
I’d like to thank everyone I’ve played with, and every coach who has helped me and supported me from when I started playing at Manchester Rugby Club through to now.
And lastly, I want to thank you. You’ve supported me in the big moments and the smaller ones. You’ve been there when we’ve won and when we’ve lost and that’s why I’ve always tried to go around and see as many of you as possible after every game. I can remember being that young kid in the stands, desperate to meet the players. It’s so sad to think I won’t see you all every week but I hope you’ll continue to support me in the future even if I’m not wearing a Sale shirt.
I could pretend that this game against Leicester won’t be emotional but I know that it will. As I said, we’re hoping to play four more games this season, but I know Friday will be another special occasion. All my family are coming to the game and I’m looking forward to sharing it with them as I did with my 200th game.
I know how lucky I’ve been to play here for so long and I’m going to miss so much about this club. So, thank you again from the bottom of my heart.
Sam
