Homesick Corey Makelim to leave Sheffield Eagles

Sheffield Eagles have confirmed that Corey Makelim will leave the club at the end of this month.
Corey Makelim celebrates scoring a try during the 1895 Cup Final at Wembley. Photo: Paul Harding/PA WireCorey Makelim celebrates scoring a try during the 1895 Cup Final at Wembley. Photo: Paul Harding/PA Wire
Corey Makelim celebrates scoring a try during the 1895 Cup Final at Wembley. Photo: Paul Harding/PA Wire

The USA international who joined the Eagles in early 2018 will return to Australia with his partner.

The utility playmaker has been a key individual at the club over the past two and half seasons and shone in the club’s 1895 Cup Final victory at Wembley last year.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Several factors resulted in Corey’s decision which the club supported despite being disappointed to lose a player of his calibre, so soon into a new two-year deal.

Makelim said: “My partner and I had to make the difficult decision to go home due to a number of reasons that were out of our control and also feeling homesick through this time.

"I'd like to firstly thank Tubbs (Mark Aston) for giving me the opportunity to come over here and be a part of the Eagles in 2018.

"Big thanks to the boys and backroom staff for making my stay here memorable and have definitely made friends for life.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"Thanks also to the Claydon family for not only their sponsorship but their ongoing support and treating my partner and I like family.

"And finally a huge thank you to all the fans that made my partner and I feel welcome and our stay here a lot easier.

"Wembley was certainly my highlight, an unreal experience that I will cherish forever. I feel very grateful that I was able to experience this with everyone that was involved. Thanks again, stay safe everyone and we’ll miss you all."

Eagles head coach Mark Aston said: “Of course we are deeply saddened to be losing Corey, but we are fully behind his decision.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We’ve spoken in length about this over the past few weeks and it’s been a difficult time for him so completely understand why he’s chosen to head home.

“His partner is now out of work; they are missing their families back home and we can’t give a definitive date when lockdown will end so have no real idea when training and playing will recommence.

“I’ve no doubt this was a tough decision for him, he is a great bloke and excellent character to have around the place and he will leave a hole that will be difficult to fill.

“However, he must do what’s best for him and his own health and wellbeing and we support his move albeit tinged with sadness that were losing him.

"He would be welcome back with open arms and hopefully if he wishes to do so he can carry on playing rugby league to a good standard back in Australia and on the international stage for America.”