Career Record for Featherstone
Appearances			Tries	Goals	Drop Goals	Points
Total	Start	Sub
187	167	20	26	0	0	93

Gary Siddall's dilemma in 1978 was whether to pursue a career in the Royal Navy or with Featherstone Rovers. It was whilst he was on leave from the navy in 1977 (where he played rugby union for United Services, Portsmouth), that he was persuaded to have trials with the club. He impressed sufficiently for the club to maintain contact and in August 1978 he signed, made his senior debut at home to Widnes on 10 September 1978 and then left for his final tour of duty with the navy. When he returned, the club had been relegated to the Second Division but he played in five of the last games of the season as their immediate return as Second Division champions was celebrated.

His initial attempts to establish himself as a regular were thwarted by injury. At the beginning of 1980/81, he broke an ankle at home to Barrow and was out four months; torn ligaments at Wigan in November 1982 ended a run of 41 consecutive appearances.  He returned in March in time to play his part in the RL Cup victories over St Helens and Bradford but Mick Glbbins got the nod for the starting line-up against Hull in the final. He came on as substitute in the closing stages and was involved in the movement which led to David Hobbs's second try and celebrated Rovers' remarkable victory. He consolidated his position over the next two seasons making his most appearances (33) and most tries (6) in 1984/85. Then playing against Halifax (at home) on 20 October 1985, he broke two bones in his back and was out for 16 months.  With typical determination, he resolved to return and after one nostalgic appearance in February 1987 he made a triumphant comeback at York on 2 September 1987. The Rovers were then back in the Second Division but he completed one of his finest seasons making 33 appearances and taking part in the dramatic Second Division Premiership Trophy final against Oldham at Old Trafford when Rovers lost 28-26. For Gary Siddall it was a remarkable triumph over his adversity and he was rewarded with a well-deserved testimonial. His last full game was at home to Bradford on 2 October 1988, but he was substitute at Castleford on 24 March 1989. During that season he led the successful Alliance team before transferring to Huddersfield in October 1989.

Known affectionately as the Gentle Giant, Siddall was a dedicated club-man whose loyalty and commitment were key virtues. A solid prop, he had a good pair of hands and was always looking to off-load. He gained widespread respect and admiration for the courage and determination he showed in overcoming serious injuries. He evidently loved the game in general and Rovers in particular.

 

Biography by Ron Bailey