Scott Taylor returns to Hull FC training, with Tony Smith open to future roles.
Taylor will enjoy his testimonial match on Sunday afternoon.
Scott Taylor’s final professional rugby league appearance could be one of his proudest yet, as he prepares for his testimonial match this Sunday afternoon. And coming from someone who has played for his nation, won a Super League Grand Final, and three Challenge Cups, that’s quite significant.
Taylor, as always, will wear his heart on his sleeve, with a sizable crowd expected as the Black and Whites visit the Wigan Warriors, with whom the Hull-born prop forward won the double in 2013.
Taylor, who is part of Hull’s 22-man squad for the game, will return to training at the University of Hull on Friday. The 32-year-old will meet the club’s new signings and reacquaint himself with his former teammates, some of whom are his best friends, ahead of one last dance at the MKM Stadium.
Meanwhile, Tony Smith awaits his return with open arms. Last season, the head coach formed an excellent relationship with the front rower, and the two have remained in touch since.
“We’ve had a couple of meet-ups,” Smith told Hull Live. “He’s going to train with us on Friday. He’s coming to say hi to everyone. He’s a regular figure in our camp to the most of the guys, but there are a few new players who will be playing in his testimonial who he doesn’t know, so he’s coming down to meet them and thank them for representing our club on his behalf.
“He does things the right way, Scott, and he’s always welcome here. I consider him more than just a former player; he is a friend who has earned my respect both on and off the field. He does a lot of good things for a lot of good people, and we’re honored to represent him in his testimonial.
Taylor, who retired from football in September, might still play in the match, according to an interview with Hull Live last month. Off the field, he runs a thriving auto business and enjoys life as a husband and parent, with plans to return to the club in some way in the future. Smith is open to the prospect, as long as the role and time are appropriate.
“Tag is very, very proud of the club,” Smith explained. “He doesn’t currently have an official job inside the club. He needs to take a break and relax, but I have no doubt that Tag will eventually play a role here. I know he wants this club to succeed, and he will do everything he can to make that happen. They’re the type of folks you want around.
“He’s been stuck in a certain routine for many years, and he needs to break it now, relax with his family, and do certain things he hasn’t been able to do because of his commitment to his work. It’s advisable to take a break, and when he’s ready to participate again, he’ll be welcomed into chats. I believe he is quite open to parts and situations that may suit him. He needs some time first, and I am confident he will make the greatest decision.”
Taylor had a significant impact on Hull FC, playing 178 times for the club after signing ahead of the 2016 season. He played a key role in England’s two victories at Wembley Stadium, securing a place in the team. He also endured several major injuries near the end of his career, two of which he has had surgery on since the autumn, but Smith believes it was always his ability to put the team first that stood out, regardless of what was going on in his personal career.
“It’s the way that they conduct themselves and the way that they compete and support the teams that they are part of,” he said. “Every player does it to differing degrees, but I believe Scott was particularly good in those areas. He prioritized the team, which is an admirable trait.
“Despite his disappointments, he has been able to set them aside for the sake of his comrades. He will continue to be talked about and admired by those who know him. He earned and deserves that. He’s done some wonderful things and made some blunders, but overall, he’s behaved himself professionally. “He deserves to be recognized this weekend.”
