Halifax Panthers express their joy in announcing the renewal of Will Calcott’s contract, securing his services for an additional two years, and extending his stay at The Shay until the culmination of the 2025 season.
Hailing from Halifax, Calcott’s remarkable journey with the Panthers began as he climbed the ranks, ultimately earning himself a coveted position in Simon Grix’s starting lineup. He initially honed his skills within the academy system at Calderdale College, before successfully progressing to the first team through the club’s reserve grade system.
In 2017, the talented 25-year-old marked his debut for the Panthers during a Super 8s Qualifiers match against Leigh Centurions. Since then, Calcott has consistently demonstrated growth, both in physical prowess and self-assurance. His dedication and progress are evident, as he has already made 21 appearances for the Panthers in the current year of 2023.
Regarding his contract extension, Will Calcott emphasised that he never considered signing with any other club, reaffirming his loyalty and commitment to Halifax Panthers.
“I love it here”, said Calcott. “It took me a while to build into where I’ve got to now but I’m comfortable. It fits around my work life outside of Rugby and where I’m living, it’s right on my doorstep. I love the lads, I love working with Simon and it is a great club to be at. I think a lot of people that have come in from other clubs into here have always said how good a team it is and how good a set-up we’ve got here so I’m more than happy to be staying.”
“With regards to what I want to achieve during my time at Halifax, I’d love to get to Wembley this year. I’d love for us to push in the playoffs, we’ve already shown this year that we can beat anyone in this competition so what’s to say we can’t go all the way this year and really have a good dig? Get to a final, push in these playoffs and who knows? It’s only 80 minutes, reach for the stars.”
Head Coach Simon Grix commented: “Fair play to Cally, he’s worked hard to reach the position he’s in now having come from the college up into the first team. It’s been a long process but I think in the last few years he’s really come through, he’s played a lot of games. We’ve put a lot of time into him as a club, not just myself but those that have come before me. And he loves it here, I don’t think he would’ve been looking to go anywhere else but to get another local lad who’s got it all in front of him is a real benefit to the club. A positive signing moving forward.”
Director of Rugby Richard Durgan added: “He’s come through the system here and is a real success story of a local lad doing well and wanting to play for his hometown club. He’s developed really well in the last couple of years and has become a mainstay of the team. He’s at a really good age as well so he’s got his best years in front of him so we’re delighted to keep hold of Will.”
