Former Springbok Smith announces retirement

[DanDango]

Former Springbok Smith announces retirement https://www.aol.co.uk/sport/2017/10/18/former-springbok-smith-announces-retirement/

Former South Africa flanker Juan Smith has announced his retirement at the age of 36.

The veteran joined Japanese club Toyota Verblitz in June following a four-year spell with Toulon, but has called time on his illustrious career due to family reasons.

Smith was part of the Springboks' World Cup-winning side in France a decade ago and won 70 caps for his country.

The back-row on Wednesday announced that he will quit after his side's clash with Toyota Shokki Shuttles on Saturday.

"I am disappointed to announce that I am going to retire from my rugby career after the match against Toyota Shokki Shuttles." he said.

"I was going to carry on my rugby playing career with my coach Jake White, however, I would like to say thank you to all my team-mates, coaching staff at Toyota Verblitz. Also to all my supporters and family members, too.

"I was looking forward to winning the championship with my team-mates, however, this was a decision which had to be decided on.

"I am wishing that the Toyota Verblitz team plays well in the competitions, and I hope that I'm able to support the team from my end as much as I can as a Toyota family member."
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[DanDango]

I still remember his first super rugby game and try for the Cats, how time flies. Happy retirement Juan Smith.

 

[Pitbull]

Something seriously wrong with a family member? Why would he quit mid contract?

Thanks for the service Juan, and I hope whatever the family issue is you deal with it and all turns out fine

 

[OrbitalDawn]

Pretty solid career, and ended with a some years to collect $$.

I'm glad that injury he got a few years back didn't end his career as was feared.

 

[thestaggy]

Such was the high esteem I held him in, I think his career was not a true indicator of his potential. He was most certainly robbed by injuries during what should've been his peak years and he was the captain we needed when John Smit was well past it as a player and Jean De Villiers was just a nice guy.

A legend nonetheless.

 

[ponder]

Something seriously wrong with a family member? Why would he quit mid contract?

Health issues of sorts https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2017/10/18/more-sports/rugby/verblitz-flanker-juan-smith-retire/