FROM THE TURF OF WEMBLEY TO THE BRICKS OF BEVERLEY JAMIE SHAUL – HULL FC HERO

After an illustrious career and renowned for scoring THAT winning try in the 2016 Challenge Cup Final triumph, Jamie Shaul has converted from a career with the Airlie Birds, to building homes. 

The former England international, who only announced his retirement from the professional game in September, wasted no time in re-visiting his apprenticeship qualification of bricklaying – taking a job with national homebuilder, Bellway Homes. 

Following a loss of love for the pressures involved in the professional game, Hull hero Shaul always decided to step away from the spotlight and working a normal day-to-day job as a bricklayer. 

Shaul said; “There’s an expectation to go into coaching following retirement from any professional sport. For me, that wasn’t an option. I fell out of love with playing the game professionally and am now looking forward to seasons as a fan sat in the stands with my family. The only coaching I am happy doing is for my son’s under eights team where the main reason for taking part is fun and enjoyment.” 

Jamie made his professional debut for when he was just 19 and went on to play 200 games for Hull FC and earn himself an international call up. It was announced that 2023 would be his testimonial year for his services to Hull FC and the RFL. 

Shaul, who suffers from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), had always envisaged working as a bricky following his departure from the professional game as it keeps his mind occupied.  

“I already knew the trade as I have a qualification in it. When I saw Bellway had a job opening, it was a no brainer to take it. The brutal banter is similar to what you have with the rugby lads, and you’re a cog in a bigger team because you all have to be on the same page when building a home.” 

Vinnie Hardcastle, Bellway Homes Bishop’s Gate site manager, said: “It’s great to have someone with Jamie’s career history join the team. Although, we do have a lot of Hull KR fans on site which can make the banter interesting to say the least. He’s just a normal bloke who comes to work to get the job done to the highest standards.” 

“You wouldn’t think he has had over 10 years out of bricklaying. He’s good at what he does. We do have a laugh though as to why he chose to go back to bricklaying as we head into winter.” 

The double Challenge Cup winner has also made the cross code move to play rugby union for Hull RU since retiring. “It’s a completely different sport. The ball is different, there are new rules to learn - especially in the rucks. It’s been great to still be able to turn up with a team of mates every Saturday, play the game and then socialise after. It’s made me find a love for the game again,” added Jamie. 

Being built off Long Lane in Beverley, Bellway’s Bishop’s Gate offers a collection of brand-new homes in a choice of two and three bedroom semi-detached and three and four bedroom detached designs. Prices on the development currently range from £274,995 to £412,995.