Ryan Shaw’s Resilient Return: Barrow’s Goal-Kicking Winger Reaches Milestone Despite Knee Setbacks
Veteran Barrow Raiders winger Ryan Shaw is showing no signs of slowing down as he continues to overcome persistent knee issues and contribute to his team’s campaign. The 32-year-old, who is renowned for his accuracy with the boot, missed the early part of the season due to injury. However, his patience and perseverance were finally rewarded when he recently reached the significant milestone of 250 career appearances an achievement over 13 years in the making.
Shaw’s journey through the rugby league ranks has been long and eventful. Born and raised in Barrow, he began his rugby journey with Barrow Island before being picked up by Warrington Wolves, where he developed through their academy system. Though he never made a first-team appearance for Warrington, he gained valuable experience through a series of loan spells, beginning with Leigh, where he made his professional debut in March 2012 during a commanding Northern Rail Cup win over Gateshead.
His career continued with further temporary stints at clubs like Swinton Lions and London Broncos, where he honed his skills and adapted to the demands of the professional game. A loan move to Barrow in 2014 reignited his connection with his hometown club, and he committed to a full-time deal later that year. From there, Shaw joined Bradford Bulls in 2015, before securing a long-term spot with Hull Kingston Rovers, where he spent four productive seasons.
After a brief switch to rugby union with Leeds Tykes and another short rugby league return at Leigh, Shaw made his way back to Barrow ahead of the 2021 season. His homecoming coincided with a brilliant campaign for the Raiders, culminating in promotion from League One as champions.
Now firmly reestablished in the Barrow squad, Shaw made his 250th career appearance in the 1895 Cup quarter-final against Oldham a match that marked his 119th outing in Barrow colours. He continued his comeback with another strong showing in the Championship, playing in a 37-12 victory over Widnes and serving as the 18th man for their Good Friday clash with London Broncos.
Shaw, who has crossed the try-line more than 40 times and is edging closer to 400 career goals, is determined to keep making an impact despite the challenges with his knees. “The knees are holding up for now, and I’m hopeful they’ll see me through to the end of the season,” he shared. “It’s just great to be back doing what I love playing and kicking for Barrow.”
Rugby league is a family affair for Shaw. His father, Neil Shaw, is a well-respected figure in the club’s history, having made 233 appearances between 1988 and 1998. Neil scored 44 tries and also contributed with 114 goals and eight field goals across multiple positions. Ryan now carries on the family legacy at Craven Park with pride, aiming to inspire the next generation just as his father once did.
As the season unfolds, Shaw’s return not only boosts Barrow’s on-field prospects but also brings a sense of continuity and pride to a club that means so much to him and to his family.