On 29th July, while playing on loan for Swinton Lions at Batley, Macauley suffered a serious concussion injury. Tests and scans followed, but then came the unexpected and devastating news that they had revealed a condition which meant it was unsafe for him to continue playing the game he has played and loved since being a boy.

Macauley signed as a scholar for Wigan at the age of 15, from Wigan St Judes. Since then he has been dedicated in doing his home town club proud, both on and off the pitch. He moved through the club’s under 16s and under 19s, earning international academy honours for England along the way, and made his first team debut in front of a home crowd in July 2016. Over the last couple of years, in the absence of any real reserves competition, Macauley has had loan periods at Workington Town, Halifax and Swinton Lions, in an effort to achieve as much game time as possible to progress his game further. Whichever shirt he has pulled on, he has worn it with pride and given absolute commitment to the club. He had been tipped by many as one to watch for the future, but sadly he will never have the opportunity to realise that potential now. It’s a hard time for any player retiring and bowing out in their last game, but Macauley played his last game not knowing until weeks later that it was to be his last.

The rugby league family has always been second to none in showing their support for one of their own in difficult times. While Macauley is faced with giving up his dreams and the life he had planned out, could you give up the cost of a pint, or a programme at the next game, or just some spare change from your pocket? What may be a small price to us, could make a huge difference to him, not only showing support, but also helping give him the space and time to start to come to terms with the implications of the last few weeks, and begin to make decisions about his future path.

Thank you.