Moody hangs up his boots
Former England captain Lewis Moody has decided to retire from all rugby with immediate effect following his most recent injury.
Renowned for his fearless style of play, the Bath flank has been injury-plagued during the latter part of his 16 year playing career – making his debut for Leicester Tigers in 1996.
The 33-year-old’s most recent shoulder injury was the last straw and the impressive loose frward has decided to cut his losses and call it a day.
With 71 caps for his country and three for the British and Irish Lions, he is one of the very few players to have consistently excelled in world rugby for the duration of his career. As the most capped England flank he is also one of the most decorated, with an incredible 7 Premiership titles, 2 Heineken Cup winners medals, 1 LV= Cup winners medal, 2 Six Nations Championship winners medals and a World Cup winners medal.
“It is with great sadness that I have to announce my immediate retirement from all forms of rugby. I have been very privileged to have played in some incredible teams and with some phenomenal players,” Moody said.
“I owe a huge debt of gratitude to all the medics and physios who have put me back together time and time again to enable me to continue to play this wonderful sport of ours.
“I would like to thank all of the coaches that I have worked with during my career, from Bracknell minis to the British and Irish Lions; they have all left their mark on me as a player.
“It goes without saying how much I value the fans who have supported me so loyally over the years, it has been one of life’s singular pleasures to have played this game in front of you.
“Finally, I would not have achieved what I have in this sport without the continued support of my family and friends during my entire career. Rugby has been my life for such a long time now, it is scary to imagine what it will be like without it, but I look forward to relishing the new opportunities and adventures that will come my way.”
Since stepping down from international rugby after last year’s World Cup, Moody spoke of his passion to channel his efforts in to succeeding with Bath. Sir Ian McGeechan, Director of Rugby at Bath, has added:
“Lewis has been a fantastic servant to the game, and I am disappointed I will not now have another opportunity to work with him on the training pitch and watch him deliver in a Bath jersey. He has had a tremendous career and is a player I have greatly admired. He is always fully committed and is everything any coach would want in a Back Row forward,” McGeechan said.
“He is someone whose opinion I trust and value, and he leaves a fantastic legacy from his time with Leicester, England and the Lions, which will long be remembered.”
Martin Johnson who played alongside Lewis for Leicester and England before coaching him, said:
“When I look back at playing with Lewis it always brings a smile to my face – it was never dull. He was one of the most committed guys I ever played with and had a complete disregard for his own physical wellbeing. It’s sad that he has had to retire but he should be remembered for a great career and someone who never gave less than 100 percent for his club and country.”
