Connacht’s Tiernan O’Halloran to retire from rugby

Fullback made 236 appearances for the province, scoring 48 tries

Tiernan O’Halloran of Connacht against Ulster. Photograph: Laszlo Geczo/Inpho
Tiernan O’Halloran of Connacht against Ulster. Photograph: Laszlo Geczo/Inpho

Connacht’s Tiernan O’Halloran has confirmed he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the season, bringing to an end a stellar 15-year career with his home province.

The fullback made his Connacht debut at the age of 18, and has made 236 appearances, scoring 48 tries in the process.

His performances over this period also earned him the first of his six caps for Ireland.

O’Halloran has released the following statement:

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“After 15 seasons of an absolute dream come true I’ve decided to call it a day on my rugby career.

“I could never have imagined as a nine-year-old boy starting rugby growing up in Clifden that I would have experienced the career I was lucky to live!

For the last 15 years I gave it my all for that jersey. I’ve had many highs and lows throughout the journey, but 2016 will always be my most memorable year! From that amazing day in Edinburgh to my first time representing my country in South Africa, I never would have got to that point without the support of my family, friends and team-mates.”

Connacht head coach Pete Wilkins said: “Tiernan should be extremely proud of his career and his impact on the game of rugby in Connacht. We thank him for his incredible loyalty and dedication, and we will give him the send-off he deserves when his time with us comes to an end.”