WHITEHAVEN’s James Donaldson has announced his retirement from Rugby League after a 16-year career in the sport.
The 34-year-old from West Cumbria confirmed his decision to retire from Rugby League on Monday, December 22.
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Donaldson, best known for his time at Leeds Rhinos where he lifted the Challenge Cup in 2020 and featured in the Super League’s Grand Final in 2022, made his professional debut for the Bradford Bulls when he was 17in 2009.
He went on to make 79 appearances the red, amber and black of the Bulls before joining Hull Kingston Rovers in 2015.
After three years as a Robin, the Cumbrian forward signed for Leeds Rhinos before making a return to the Bulls ahead of the 2025 season, featuring 15 times as the club achieved its goal of a return to Super League for 2026.
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Speaking on the Bradford Bulls’ website after Donaldson’s retirement was confirmed, the club’s CEO Jason Hirst said: “James Donaldson embodies all that’s good in Rugby League and what it takes to be a true professional.
“Namely, his moral compass, integrity, focus, dedication, desire, determination, discipline, durability, toughness and sheer will to succeed.
“All attributes that will ensure James continues to be successful in the next chapter of his working life.
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“I could go on and on, but needless to say, he has the total respect of everyone at Bradford Bulls, not to mention our wider sport.
“Despite many injury setbacks, James has had a stellar career, across a number of clubs and I’m privileged to have watched him serve our club, so well, across two spells and I am proud to know him.
“On behalf of everyone at Bradford Bulls, I’d like to wish James and his young family every success in 2026 and beyond.
“Thank you, James.”
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