Declan Fitzpatrick, Ulster and Ireland tighthead prop, will retire from rugby at the end of the season for medical reasons.
Fitzpatrick enjoyed a 9-year stint with Ulster, the only club of his professional career. The seven-time Ireland forward has been advised to give up the game following a recent run of concussions, which have unfortunately been taking a toll on his health.
The 31 year old joined in 2006 and has accumulated 98 appearances since then, scoring three tries in the process. His recovery time from the knocks have gradually lengthened and, after referral to a neurologist by the Ulster medical team, tests suggested that retirement would be best for his long-term health.
"While it’s not an easy decision to hang up the boots, I can look back with fondness at nine fantastic seasons at Ulster Rugby," said Fitzpatrick. It is perhaps fitting, for a professional of his stand, that three of his Ireland caps came against the All Blacks. That included the dramatic defeat in 2013, what turned out to be his last cap.
He continued: "It was a huge honour to have represented my country and an enormous privilege to pull on that green shirt. I have played alongside some brilliant individuals and have made friendships that will extend long into my retirement from rugby.
"I want to thank the medical teams at Ulster Rugby and the IRFU for the care that they have given me. My symptoms continue to improve and I know the advice that I received is in the best interests of my long-term health.
"Finally, I would like to thank the staff at IRUPA who have been a great support in recent seasons and who have helped me make the transition from playing rugby to my new job as a quantity surveyor."
He'll no doubt be cheering on his province as the season comes to a close. Ulster sit joint-second in the Pro12 and are just two points from table-toppers Glasgow Warriors. A though run-in awaits, however, with provincial clashes against Munster and Leinster as well as a trip to Glasgow in their final three games.
Should Ulster battle through those games and reach the Pro12 final, it'll be played at the Kingspan Stadium.