Morgan Stoddart Retires

http://www.scarlets.co.uk/eng/news/5456.php wrote:Stoddart said: "It is with real sadness that I have to announce my retirement from rugby and it has been a difficult few months as I come to terms with the fact that I was not going to return to full fitness. I have been very fortunate to play for the Scarlets and Wales and have enjoyed every game in my professional career working alongside some brilliant fellow professionals.

"I worked as hard as possible in the year I was off to get back on the pitch and that can be a difficult period for any injured player mentally, as well as physically, but I was determined to get back to playing.

"But ever since I've been back on the field I've had significant pain in the leg throughout and that has not improved. Following a series of medical tests and consultations, detailed scans and strength tests, I've been advised that I cannot continue."

Stoddart said it was tough to have to give up his rugby career but easier to an extent because the choice was taken out of his hands. "It's not easy to give up your rugby career but when it really is impossible to carry on you just have to accept it and get on with it.

"I have some great memories that I will never forget and the Scarlets and all our supporters have been fantastic over the years. It was an honour to play in the Scarlets shirt, with all the great names that have been part of our region throughout our history and a pleasure to play in front of our Scarlets supporters who are the life and soul of our region.

"I will miss all the spirit and passion of Scarlets rugby and the level of commitment and hard work the players put in for our region and its supporters of which I have been proud to have been a part.

"I'm grateful for all the great opportunities and experiences I have had in my rugby career and there are many brilliant memories including the Heineken Cup with the Scarlets and playing for my country.

Stoddart thanked all those who have worked with him: "I owe a great amount to the physios and doctors who have given me so much time and commitment to help try and get my leg right, without their support and encouragement it could have been a dark 14 months in recovery.

"I would also like to thank all the coaches I have worked with from my first games in the Rhondda up to international level."

As for life after rugby, Stoddart who studied bio-chemistry said: "I'll have to adapt and it's important to give yourself time to consider things in the future after such an intense life playing rugby but I have already started thinking ahead and there are many exciting opportunities for me related to my career to look at and take forward which will keep me occupied now."

Morgan's brother Hywel Stoddart is a member of Newport Gwent Dragons squad.

Stoddart has been offered support and advice for his future career aspirations both by the WRU and the Scarlets.

pioden gorllewin wrote:it's a shame, he worked so hard to come back from this injury. wish him all the best for the future. diolch morgan.

ScarletSpiderman wrote:

pioden gorllewin wrote:it's a shame, he worked so hard to come back from this injury. wish him all the best for the future. diolch morgan.

And to be honest most people thought he had managed to recover as well, especially scoring on his return against the Dragons.

Brendan wrote:will he drop down a few level our do you think he will drop out. Even though he may not be match fit I sould hope he could still play a few division down as fitness is choice rather then a requirement. Also who wouldn't want him on the bench for 20mins each game. at professional level no but amatuer why not.

Brendan wrote:will he drop down a few level our do you think he will drop out. Even though he may not be match fit I sould hope he could still play a few division down as fitness is choice rather then a requirement. Also who wouldn't want him on the bench for 20mins each game. at professional level no but amatuer why not.