OLDHAM RLFC can confirm Nick Rawsthorne has left the club due to a change in work and family circumstances.
Since the arrival of a baby – as well as running his own business – Rawsthorne, a key member of last season’s squad, has found it difficult to commit to the club this year.
Rawsthorne was one of the first signings made since the club’s takeover back in March and, after his arrival in June, the winger soon became an important member of the squad.
He scored ten tries in ten appearances in the 2023 season which helped secure a play-off spot in League One last year.
Managing director Mike Ford said:
“We’re disappointed to see Nick leave, we feel he would have had a big influence on the club this year with the talent he has.
“At the same time, we understand and have empathy towards his situation which involves a new job as well as juggling family life.
“Since we signed him from Halifax last year, he’s been impeccable; he’s very coachable and a team first type of player.
“Our philosophy at Oldham is player first, and we’ve supported Nick in this – the most important thing is your family and we wish Nick all the best for the future.”
Explaining his departure, Rawsthorne said:
“I started up a company in June 2023 and it’s taken off a lot better than expected, but with that comes a lot of time and effort, so it has become more difficult to juggle both of them, on top of having an eight-month-old.
“We’ve also had a bit of a tough time recently after suddenly losing my uncle, so that has made me want to spend more time with my family.
“I’ve loved it at Oldham, Mike (Ford) brought me to the club last June and has made me feel really welcome, as have all the fans.
“Everything Mike and the board are doing to get the club back to the top has been really impressive, and you can see how passionate they are.
“It’s a shame that I’m going to be leaving the club, but I’ll keep on following them and I hope they do get back to Super League at some point in the near future.””
The club expresses its thanks to Nick as he departs with the club’s best wishes for the future.
