Calderwood says goodbye to Rhinos

Leeds Rhinos have revealed that England winger Mark Calderwood will leave the club at the end of the season after the club and player failed to agree a new contract.

Calderwood, 23, made his debut in 2001 and has gone on to make 118 appearances so far for Leeds, scoring 91 tries since joining from Stanningley ARLFC.

He was due to be out of contract at the end of the current campaign and a new contract was offered by the Rhinos five weeks ago and discussions have been on going but now both parties have mutually agreed to bring the matter to a close.

Commenting on the announcement, Calderwood said: ?Being a Leeds lad, I have been very proud of playing for my hometown club, especially experiencing Grand Final and World Club Challenge success.

?But I believe in my ability and value as a player. It has been a major decision to turn down the offer, especially when I have enjoyed being part of a new era of success for the club and, particularly, the fans.

?Whatever the future holds from 2006 onwards, I can promise the Rhinos supporters that I will continue to give 110% on and off the field for the rest of the season as we chase Challenge Cup and Grand Final honours.?

Chief Executive Gary Hetherington added: ?It?s disappointing because Mark has been a member of a group of young players who will hopefully be together for many years to come.

?We are surprised at his decision but we respect his wish and he will leave at the end of the season with everyone?s best wishes.

?We are now in an age of freedom of contract and our job now is to find a replacement. With this in mind we hope to make an announcement in the near future.?

Rhinos head coach Tony Smith, who played a full part in the contract negotiations with Calderwood, commented: ?Mark has made good progress and I will be sorry to see him go but we have tried to keep him and I don?t think anything more could have been done.

?I know he will continue to give his best for Leeds for the remainder of the season.?

Thanks to: http://www.superleague.co.uk for another excellent article.