Fleming calls time on a stellar career Former Shire star admits it was a tough decision
James Fleming will miss almost everything about playing pro rugby - apart from the pre-season training.
The former Perthshire star has hung up his boots following a special career representing Scotland’s sevens side.
It was a nine-year professional service which witnessed Fleming score 112 tries in 45 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series tournaments.
He is now taking on the role of operations manager at Lovat Mill, Hawick the ‘Home of Tweed’ and also wants to have more time to spend with his new son.
Reflecting on his career, which included an appearance at the Commonwealth Games in April, Fleming (30) said: “It was a really hard decision to hang up the boots but I’ve had a great career and loved the opportunity to represent Scotland.
“We’ve just welcomed our son Alex into the world and I want to be around more to watch him grow up.
“The opportunity I’ve been given at Lovat Mill is also something I’m
Fleming reflects on a special career but will enjoy more downtime really looking forward to getting back was really special and a main my teeth stuck into. highlight.
“I prefer looking forward than “Also to be part of the first looking back. team to ever beat the All Blacks
“It will probably sink in when in the history of Scottish rugby pre-season starts and I’m not is something that I will cherish involved, although I’ll certainly forever.” enjoy not having to do another Fleming was introduced to pre-season, that is for sure. the sport at the North Inch with
“To win at Twickenham back to Perthshire Rugby Club and is hoping he can be an inspiration to the next generation.
“When I first started as a six-yearold at Perthshire it was always a dream to represent Scotland,” he said.
“When I got a bit older I was never selected for any of the regional teams so, in a way, I thought that opportunity had passed.
“I always played sport for the enjoyment and continued to do so.
“So at 22 when I was offered my first professional contract, it was quite late to enter the pro game but was literally a dream come true.
“I know myself and all of the other players will always say that the key to success is enjoyment.
“When I was young I played every sport that had a ball and think this definitely helped my rugby.
“It’s also given me friends for life so I would say always enjoy your sport and stick in.
“Rugby is a special sport, you make more than just team-mates and it has the potential to take you all over the world.
“I’m lucky enough to have had that experience and I’m forever grateful to everyone who has given me the opportunity and supported me along the way.”