Leeds Knights’ Matt Haywood announces Retirement from Ice Hockey
The Morley Glass Leeds Knights alternate Captain Matt Haywood announces his retirement from ice hockey, hanging up his skates after a remarkable career which included 3 seasons with the club.
Haywood joined Leeds Knights for the 2022-23 season as one of Head Coach Ryan Aldridge’s first signings and immediately made an impact on the ice. Over the course of his time with the club, Haywood has helped the team to a period of unprecedented success. He has played an instrumental part in the Knights winning the NIHL National League title in each of his three seasons with the club, solidifying his place as one of the team’s most important and reliable players.
In 2023, Haywood and the Knights were also victorious in the NIHL National Playoffs, capping off a historic season, before going on to secure another major win in 2025, lifting the NIHL National Cup for the first time in Leeds Knights’ history!
“They say good things must come to an end, so I guess great things must too!” said Leeds Knights Head Coach Ryan Aldridge. “From our first phone call 3 years ago to moment he informed me his playing days were coming to an end he has been a true professional, a leader, a mentor and a friend to us all. He has played a massive part in our success over the last 3 years, and we wish him and his family every success in the future. Matty will always be a Knight, and I hope he and his family have loved the journey we have all shared as much as we have loved sharing it with them.”
Throughout his career with Leeds, Haywood has endeared himself to the Knights fans with his selfless style of play. The iconic 'Hey Jude' chant, which rings out loud and proud each week at The Castle, is a testament to the deep connection Matt has built with the fans.
Matt will play his final game at The Castle on Sunday 13th April 2025, when the Knights take on the Peterborough Phantoms. Fans are encouraged to come out and show their appreciation and give Matt the send-off he deserves after such a great career!
“It’s an absolute privilege to finish my 15-year career at this club,” said Matt Haywood. “I’m very grateful to have found Leeds at a time in my life where my hockey career was potentially over but this club and everybody associated with it helped me find the love and enjoyment of the sport again. It’s been tough travelling from Scotland every weekend but my teammates, staff and the fans have made it easy for me by welcoming myself and my family with open arms. I will forever be grateful for that. I appreciate Ryan and Steve for bringing me into this organisation and for allowing me to be a part of something special for the last 3 years. For now, we look to the playoffs and the potential to do something extra special and once I play my last game, I will have the chance to reflect further on my career. It’s not over yet… Thank for you giving us a second home in Leeds.”
The Leeds Knights organisation would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Matt Haywood for his years of dedication, leadership, and commitment to the club.
