Ireland Rugby Star Jordan Conroy Announces Retirement from 7s

Jordan Conroy, the celebrated Irish rugby player, has announced his retirement from rugby 7s after a decade-long career with the national team. The 31-year-old made this emotional revelation through an Instagram post, expressing his surprise at the difficulty of saying goodbye to a sport that has shaped his identity for the past ten years.

In his statement, Conroy reflected on his journey, stating, “I didn’t think it would be this difficult writing this, saying goodbye to something that’s been a part of your life the last 10 years.” He emphasized the emotional weight of stepping away from a sport that has provided him with numerous experiences, both challenging and rewarding.

Conroy’s rugby career began at the age of 18, when he played for Tullamore and Buccaneers before making his debut for the Ireland 7s team in 2016. During his tenure, he became a standout player, notably becoming the highest try scorer at the 2020 World Series. His remarkable performance contributed to Ireland’s qualification for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics and the upcoming 2024 Olympics. Over his career, he played in 171 World Series games, scoring an impressive 123 tries.

In his farewell message, Conroy expressed gratitude towards his teammates and friends, describing them as “brothers” who supported him throughout his career. He said, “We were more than just a team, we were a bunch of lads who believed in each other when others laughed at us.” His heartfelt thanks extended to those who had played vital roles in his journey, both on and off the field.

Conroy’s retirement announcement elicited an outpouring of tributes from the rugby community. Renowned Springboks legend Bryan Habana praised Conroy’s contributions to the sport, stating, “Mad respect @jordan_conroy19 thanks for all the entertainment!!!!” Former teammate Greg O’Shea reminisced about their shared experiences, saying, “What a journey brother. From living together in a tiny hotel room to watching you become one of the best players in the world.”

Reflecting on his career, Conroy acknowledged that the sport has taught him invaluable lessons and has been instrumental in shaping who he is today. He concluded his statement with a note of appreciation for his journey, saying, “I wouldn’t be the Jordan I am today if it wasn’t for this sport.”

As Conroy embarks on the next chapter of his life, his legacy in rugby 7s remains firmly established, marked by his dedication, skill, and the friendships forged along the way.