Joe Launchbury announced his retirement from professional rugby at the end of the season. The talented lock had been a long-serving servant of the England national team, Wasps, and Harlequins. Over the years, he grew into a fan favourite, but now it is time for him to hang up the boots.
JOE LAUNCHBURY ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
In a detailed, emotional letter, Joe poured out his heart, sharing his journey and what it means to him.
“It has been coming for a while, and it is certainly no secret, but the time feels right to step away from rugby at the end of this season. It is hard to put into words what this game has meant to me. What started as a young lad at Exmouth Rugby Club became a journey that took me across the world and gave me memories I will carry for the rest of my life. To have worn the England shirt 70 times, to have given so many years to Wasps, to have had the honour of representing Harlequins, and to experience a season in Japan. I’ve been so fortunate to represent the teams I have.” Joe started.
“My time at Wasps will always be some of the most special years of my life. It was never just a place of work; it was a home for my family and me. To spend 12 years there and compete on some of the biggest stages meant everything to me. My only regret is that we did not quite get over the line in a Premiership final. After everything that happened at Wasps, the opportunity to play for Toyota Verblitz came at the perfect moment. Experiencing rugby in a different environment and giving my young family the chance to live in such an incredible country and culture is something I will always be grateful for,” he continued, remembering Wasps memories.
GOODBYE HARLEQUINS
Then came Harlequins. As a young boy dreaming of playing at The Stoop, it felt like everything had come full circle. It has been a truly special way to finish my career. I have enjoyed representing this historic club, and although this year has had its challenges, I believe there is a very bright future ahead,” he said.
GOODBYE ENGLAND
“Playing for England was the pinnacle. Every young player growing up dreams of representing their country, and it is a privilege I never took for granted. To share the field with and compete against the very best in the world meant more to me than I can ever explain.” Joe said.
“There have been incredible highs that I will cherish forever and moments that tested me. Through it all, I can honestly say I gave everything I had every time I stepped onto the pitch, and that is something I will always be proud of,” he continued.
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“To my teammates, past and present, thank you. The friendships we have built go far beyond rugby. Not a day went by that I did not enjoy being around the people I was lucky enough to call teammates. You made every challenge worthwhile. To the coaches and staff who believed in me, pushed me, and helped me grow, I am forever grateful. And to the fans, your support through every high and low has meant a lot to the teams I have been a part of and me,” he continued emotionally.
THANK YOU TO THE FAMILY
“Most importantly, my family. Mum, Dad, and my sister Victoria, thank you for everything you gave me from the very beginning. Your support, whether near or far, has meant the world to me. Mallory, there are not enough words. You have been my strength through everything. The sacrifices you have made and the way you have always supported me, putting me first, are something I will never be able to repay. I only hope I have made you proud. Blythe, Hayden, Quinn, and our baby boy on the way, you are my reason for everything now. I hope one day you look back and feel proud, but more than anything, I hope this journey shows you what hard work, resilience, and commitment can lead to.” he thanked his family.
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“Rugby has given me more than I ever dreamed of. Not just a career, but a life filled with purpose and friendships, as well as memories that will stay with me forever. It is incredibly difficult to say goodbye, and I know that feeling will never fully leave me. But for me, the time is definitely right. I have given my all to my career, and my body is telling me it needs a break! I would love to stay involved in the game in some way, but for now, I am looking forward to what comes next, and most of all, being present to watch my children grow up. Thanks for the memories,” he finished.