ULSTER AND IRELAND prop Declan Fitzpatrick has been forced to retire from rugby at the age of 31 due to concussion issues.
Fitzpatrick won seven international caps and played for Ulster almost 100 times, but has taken medical advice to hang up his boots with immediate effect.
The tighthead prop suffered a number of concussions in recent years and Ulster say his “symptoms were progressively slower to resolve.” A leading neurologist has told Fitzpatrick that it is in his best long-term interest to stop playing.
“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 in an official Ulster statement.
“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.”
Fitzpatrick last played for Ulster in January’s Champions Cup defeat to Toulon, while his most recent Ireland cap came against the All Blacks in 2013. The tighthead was also one of few players to emerge from the 2012 tour of New Zealand with credit, having made his debut on that trip.
The Dungannon RFC man often promised to push on towards first-choice status with Ulster and Ireland, but ultimately injuries played their part in holding him back from fulfilling his maximum potential.
Fitzpatrick endured a heart scare in 2014, when he was forced off the pitch during a clash with Glasgow suffering palpitations. His concussive episodes in recent seasons have prevented him from further progress.
Ulster’s team manager Bryn Cunnigham thanked Fitzpatrick for his service:
“Declan has been a tremendous servant for both Ulster and Ireland. Having played almost 100 times for the province and seven times for Ireland is evidence of a long and successful rugby career.
“He will be missed both on and off the pitch and I know everyone connected at Ulster Rugby – players, management and supporters, will wish him well in his retirement.”
New Zealand prop Ben Afeaki last week announced his retirement from rugby due to concussions, while Cardiff’s Rory Watts-Jones retired in February on the same grounds.
- Originally posted at 14.19, updated at 17.15.
