Ellis’ rugby league passion reignited by development drive

Gareth Ellis has always been described as having a charismatic presence. It’s almost magnetic.

- By DAN TOMLINSON

In fact, the biggest compliment, through a career that spanned Super League, the NRL, and the international stage, was that he was always described as the player his teammates wanted to play alongside.

It’s not hard to see why. In a glittering playing career, Ellis gave it everything. He was the ultimate professional, the no-nonsense player, the leader, and the enforcer. His talents paved the way for two Challenge Cup successes at Hull FC. He's a club legend. Nothing less.

It was perhaps natural, then, that there was some frustration after retirement. Ellis, through his own words, has dipped into various roles, but none gave him that same purpose as being a player.

But that’s now changed, and in returning to Hull midway through last year after a several-month absence, the now 44-year-old has found that purpose again.

Taking a new Director of Rugby & Wellbeing role, Ellis is thriving once more at the club that’s become his second home.

He may hail from Castleford, but he's every bit the Black and White as the next man. And that passion shines through.