YORK Rugby League Former Players' Association was sad to learn of the retirement of Richard Hayes, due to an ongoing injury.

Richard has been a gentleman, both on and off the field, throughout his rugby career. I can't remember him being 'sent off' or even 'warned' during his many years in the game.

On the field Richard always seemed to be taking the ball up, never shirking, never complaining and always did his fair share of tackling. Off the field he was always and still is a very pleasant young man. It is a shame that his final season has been curtailed by injury.

The Former Players' Association, in appreciation of Richard's service to rugby in York and recently to York City Knights, will be donating a cheque to him in the near future.

Denzil Webster

(Hon Secretary),

York Rugby League Players' Association,

Millgates,

York.

Updated: 10:12 Saturday, February 14, 2004