Ealing Trailfinders can announce that fly-half Craig Willis is to depart after seven years with the Club.
After signing in 2018 from Newcastle Falcons, Willis didn’t take long to assume the number ten shirt, guiding the team to Championship Cup glory in his first season, overcoming London Irish in a tense final.
He played a pivotal role in the Ealing Trailfinders’ first Championship-winning season, scoring 143 points on his way to clinching the title in 2021-22.
The ever-present playmaker won two further Championship titles with Trailfinders in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons, and helped the side to consecutive Premiership Cup Semi Finals.
After making an incredible 132 appearances for the Club, including 100 starts, Willis bows out after scoring 936 points and 15 tries.
However, Willis’ impact on the Club stretches further than on the rugby field, and he will be missed around Trailfinders Sports Club by his teammates, coaches and staff.
Speaking about his time at the Club, Willis said:
“My seven years at Ealing Trailfinders have been amazing, coming away with three Championship titles and so many of my favourite career highlights so far fills me with pride.
“I want to thank all the players and staff I’ve worked with, and the supporters, for making my time at Trailfinders so enjoyable. We have experienced countless highs and the occasional lows on and off the field.
“I’m looking forward to a new challenge, but I won’t be a stranger and look forward to watching the club continue to grow!”
Ben Ward, Director of Rugby, added:
“Craig has had an incredible impact on this Club. He’s been the person in the driving seat at number ten for the majority of his time here, and he’s led us to many trophies. He’s incredibly tough, never takes a backward step, but also incredibly inventive with our attack and his outstanding kicking game.
“He’s always been an incredibly positive character around Trailfinders Sports Club. He’s enjoyable to be around, but you’ve got a true competitor on the field as well. He’s someone who cares incredibly about this team. As players have come and gone, he’s been a constant through every success we’ve had.
“The qualities that he possesses have helped shape Ealing Trailfinders’ over the last number of years, and he can be incredibly proud of that. What he’s brought to the environment has been unique. He will always be welcome back here, and I’m not sure whether this is the end of his time at this Club.”
Everyone at Ealing Trailfinders would like to thank Craig for his contribution to the Club over the past seven seasons, and we wish him all the best in the next stage of his rugby career.
