Harlequins title winner to retire at the end of the season
Harlequins lock Matt Symons has announced that he will retire from rugby at the end of the season, brining an eleven year career to an end.
The 32-year-old, who started in Quins’ Gallagher Premiership final victory over Exeter Chiefs last season, will bring an end to a career in which he has played in Super Rugby for the Chiefs, has represented Quins, Wasps and London Irish, and has also been part of the Great Britain rowing programme.
Symons has effectively three games left in his career guaranteed, which are Quins’ remaining fixtures this season, and will most likely also have a semi-final with the London club. From there, he will hope to have a fifth and final game for Quins, in the showcase at Twickenham.
After this announcement was made, Symons said: “I think there comes a natural time for every rugby player to hang up their boots, and I feel fortunate to be able to make that decision on my own terms.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given through professional rugby. It has given me the chance to live out a childhood dream and meet some fantastic people. I’m now really excited to shift into a new working environment, where I can hopefully add value using some of the skills developed through elite sport.
“Winning the Premiership here with Harlequins last season is my most cherished rugby memory. Overall, from the journey to New Zealand and finishing up back in London, I’ve been very lucky.
“Thank you to everyone that played a part, however small, in my career. A special mention must go to my wife (Tash) and mum (Sharon) for their unwavering support.
“I’m grateful to be able to put my all into the remainder of the Premiership season here at Quins with a title defence on the line.
“This is a special group that can and has done incredible things. I’m glad to be able to push for one more trophy before I bow out.”
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