FORMER CONNACHT BACK-ROW forward George Naoupu has announced his retirement from professional rugby, calling time on a 15-year career during which he made 102 appearances for the western province.
The 33-year-old New Zealand native spent six seasons at the Sportsground, establishing himself as a fan’s favourite as he helped Connacht lift the Guinness Pro12 title in his final year with the club.
Naoupu spent last season in England with Harlequins but was among the players released by the Premiership club at the end of last season, and today he has confirmed he is hanging up his boots.
In a statement, the powerful Kiwi said he was ‘privileged and grateful’ to have got the opportunity to play rugby for a living and thanked everyone who helped him along the way.
Naoupu also said that he looks forward to returning to Ireland with his wife — Ireland international Sene Naoupu — ahead of next month’s Women’s Rugby World Cup.
“I feel privileged and grateful to have played rugby for a living as long as I have. I would like to give a sincere thank you to all my former teammates, coaches, agents at Essentially Group, Rugby Players Ireland, friends and family for their part in this humbling journey,” he said.
“My wife and I are excited to return to Ireland and I look forward to continuing work in rugby as a coach, engaging communities, schools and clubs in the country that has been so generous to my rugby career.
“I now wish to do my part and give back by helping to develop the game from grassroots level and beyond.”
“I also look forward to supporting the Irish Women’s Rugby team in the upcoming home World Cup this August.”
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