HISTORY-MAKER Michelle Larkin has decided to call time on her playing career.
The 45-year-old wrote her name in the Barrow Raiders Ladies’ history books, scoring the club’s first ever Super League try.
Speaking about her retirement, she told the club’s official website: “I feel so privileged and proud to have been part of this team from the beginning.
“Any challenges faced along the way have been met front-on, with the help of the amazing coaches and staff, and of course my team-mates, who will be friends for life.
“The club has been so supportive from the moment we started our journey to the Super League, helping in any way they could.
“The future of female rugby league in Barrow is bright. The number of girls coming through is growing every year, and I hope that I have played a small part in inspiring more young women to play rugby league.
“The supporters have been amazing. We couldn’t have achieved our goals without them cheering us on each week, and from a personal perspective I couldn’t be prouder to have worn the Barrow Raiders badge.
“Finishing fifth in the Super League and scoring the first try at this level for the club is so special, and I couldn’t ask for a more perfect time to hang up my boots and reflect on the journey I’ve taken.”
Larkin played a key role in 2023 campaign as Raiders Ladies’ won promotion to the Betfred Women’s Super League, scoring four tries in 13 games.
In the 2024 campaign – the club’s first at the elite level of the women’s game she played 13 games, and weighed in with three tries.
Perhaps the most memorable of those was the club’s first-ever try in Group 1 of the Women’s Super League against Wigan Warriors back in April.
At the age of 45, Larkin holds the proud record of being the oldest player to have ever featured in the Betfred Women’s Super League.
Barrow Ladies head coach Amanda Wilkinson said: “Michelle has proven that if you work hard enough and want to succeed, you can compete at the highest level, no matter your age or experience.
“Having grown up with Michelle and her sisters and competing alongside her as an athlete, it was a wonderful experience to be able to coach her and watch her develop.
“She has been an influential player and an inspiration to ladies wanting to get involved in sport, and she will truly be missed.”
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