Danny Morrow explains decision to retire

Recently, Barrow Raiders forward Danny Morrow announced his decision to retire from professional rugby league 

Following the conclusion of the 2022 Betfred Championship season, Morrow opted to hang up his boots after seven seasons with the club. 

Having arrived at the Raiders from Walney ARLFC, Morrow went on to make 78 appearances in all competitions, scoring 18 tries.

Last season he featured 13 times for Paul Crarey’s side. 

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We caught up with Morrow to discuss his reasons for retirement, his career highlights and his lasting memories of the Raiders. 

Danny, you’ve been on quite a journey with the club, making 78 appearances in all. Which moments stand out for you during your time in Raiders colours?

The moments that have stood out for me personally throughout my career? It’s a tough question with a memory like mine, which must be down to my head currently resembling a road map with all the scars!

One of our wins over North Wales Crusaders at the Magic weekend in the iPro Sport Cup final was a special day for me. It was my first televised game, and I managed to bag myself Man of the Match, as well as scoring the winning try.

The excitement from the lads and the crowd made it all the better. 

I also represented Great Britain in Jamaica and Australia in my early days, which was a proud moment for myself and the family. 

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But my proudest career moment would have to be my little girl, Matilda, shouting me from the stand for the first time. I had an overwhelming sense of pride, and the thought of that not happening again is a real tear-jerker.

The 2022 season was certainly one to remember. How fondly will you look back on your time with the Raiders last season?

For the Raiders, this year has been one for the memory books. 

We were a major underdog from the get-go, and against all odds we managed to seal a top-four position. To then top it off by being awarded Club of the Year was a very proud moment for us all. 

It shouldn’t go unnoticed that Cresta [Paul Crarey] being awarded Coach of the Year was also a proud moment and fully deserved. 

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There isn’t a question Paul can’t answer about another team or player in the sport. The guy bleeds rugby league. 

Paul’s time and dedication throughout the ups and downs over my seven years at Barrow, and the time he’s invested into our great team and community, is the definition of commitment and perseverance.

What would your final message be to those fans who have cheered you on so passionately during your time at the club? 

What can I say about the Raiders fans? Unbelievably passionate, dedicated and loyal. 

They stuck with us when times were hard and facing relegation, but then strived and soared when at the top of our game and seizing promotion. 

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You can’t ask for better fans supporting the club, and for me being a local lad and knowing the vast majority of them on a personal level, it makes it all the more special. They will be truly missed.

What does the future hold for Danny Morrow?

I plan now to fully appreciate some time with my wife and daughter without the stresses of competing at a professional sport. 

My wife Sophie has been amazing throughout my years at barrow and always supported me, especially through the low times. 

I will be fully transparent and tell you the last couple of seasons for me and my family have been tough. Over the last 18 months, I found myself getting injured that little bit more often (head injuries were relentless) and playing a lot less games due to selection. 

Both don’t pose well for one’s mental health. But with the class of players that have signed at the club over the last two seasons, it was always going to be hard to make the cut. 

The majority of the games I’ve been involved in this year I have sat at first reserve, and it’s been a bittersweet thing to see the lads win some absolutely brilliant games this year and play some amazing rugby. You want nothing more to have been a part of it. 

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Ultimately that’s what has cemented my decision to retire. 

I’ve had an amazing journey and would absolutely encourage anyone who gets the chance to play at a professional level to do so. I would also like to thank all the players, staff and the Raiders community for the memories.

It’s been a pleasure.

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