Salford Red Devils centre Kris Welham has signed for Betfred Championship side Featherstone Rovers ahead of the 2021 season.
Welham arrived at the AJ Bell Stadium in 2017, and now 33 years old, has taken a step down a league to play part-time as he looks to prepare for life outside of rugby league.
Speaking on the departure, head coach Ian Watson said: “Kris has been one of the best signings that I’ve made in my time at Salford and I feel privileged to have had the past few seasons with him in our team.
“Always so consistent in training and games, Kris has been an exceptional leader on the field, through how hard he works off the ball for his teammates and he will be a big loss for us, but a massive gain for Featherstone, who have got a champion of a player.
“I wish Kris and his family all the best for the future.”
The 33-year-old has enjoyed an exciting three years at Salford, playing a part in their 2019 Grand Final journey, before helping the club reach their first Coral Challenge Cup Final since 1969 earlier this month.
Director of rugby & operations Ian Blease added: “Kris has been an exceptional player and professional for our club. He epitomises what we are about, with his honesty, integrity and dedication to the cause.
“When Kris told me he was moving on and explained the reasons why, I totally understood, but I have probably never felt worse when a player has told me he is moving on, than when I spoke with Kris.
“For me, he is up there in our best signings of the recent era. He has been my player of the season on many occasions and has always been there for his teammates, with the best fend I’ve ever seen!
“I personally thank Kris for being an outstanding human being, and wish him and his family well with my best wishes going with him in his new venture and life.”
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