Jacob Fairbank has joined hometown club Halifax for the rest of the season – in a move that signals the end of his Huddersfield Giants career.
The 25-year-old back-row forward has moved to the Kingstone Press Championship club with immediate effect, with the announcement coinciding with the news he hasn’t been offered a Giants Super League contract for 2016.
Fairbank has been full-time at the Giants since November 2009, during which time he made 17 senior appearances, and admits he’s sad to be leaving.
“It’s a great club to be at, but I’ve been frustrated I’ve not been able to play more games here,” he said.
“Every time I was fit the squad seemed to be healthy and it is a strong squad and I had loan spells here and there and then picked up the odd knock so never really got going as I’d want.
“All the lads and staff have been great with me, and moving to Halifax will be a challenge but one I know I’ve got to take and give my all.
“I’ve been there before and done well so hopefully I can repeat that again. They have a good side and the chance for promotion is there in the new structure, and for me it’s a new start again.”
Added Giants Managing Director Richard Thewlis: “Jacob has been desperately unlucky in his career to date and the reality is he has rarely strung a consistent run of games together with us and he needs to be playing week in, week out.
“The opportunity at Halifax arose for game-time in what will be a competitive middle eights competition and we all here really hope Jacob can make an impact with them and show everyone what an excellent player he is.
“For our part, the salary cap can be a cruel beast at times and Jacob’s slot in the 2016 squad has been taken by 19-year-old loose-forward Mikey Wood, who has two years to build himself into a Super League regular, which injury has prevented Jacob from doing.
“Jacob has been an outstanding professional in his time with us and everyone here really wishes him every success in his career. If there is any reward for perseverance, attitude and a willingness to do the right things, then I am sure that Jacob will go on to have a successful career.”
