Harry’s heartache as he is forced to quit, aged 23
WELSH international Harry Robinson has opened up on his “utter devastation” at having to retire from playing rugby at 23.
The Scarlets winger has had to admit defeat after a 10-month battle to regain full fitness following a serious neck injury.
He did manage to come back from major surgery to make three appearances this season, but now he has had to accept that it is time to hang up his boots.
In a heartfelt statement which he has posted on social media, he said: “I never thought I would be in this position at the age of 23 – having to call an end on my professional rugby career at such an early age.
“I am utterly devastated and it is a very, very bitter pill to have to swallow.
“During a game at the end of last season I suffered a significant neck injury that subsequently needed serious neck surgery.
“It came as a huge shock to hear the surgeon explain that it was unlikely I would ever return to play professional rugby.
“This was not a prognosis that I wanted to believe or accept. Following successful surgery to ensure that I was at no greater risk of making my injury and condition worse I was determined to come back to play again for the Scarlets. It is difficult to accept that I will never do this again.
“I have worked so hard over the last 10 months to return to full fitness and regain the functionality I had before the injury. It is with great regret that I have been unable to do this.
“As it has turned out the consultant was correct with his initial assessment of my injury and the ultimate impact on my career.
“While, I am devastated I count myself very lucky and enormously privileged. I have had a fantastic six years as a professional rugby player with both Cardiff Blues and Scarlets. I have travelled all over the world at every age grade, Wales 7s and the Welsh squad. I have made many friends who I know will be friends for the rest of my life.
“I’d like to thank every single one of you that has supported me over my career, these are the cards I’ve been dealt and I fully accept them, now it’s time to move onto the next chapter.
“I would like to thank a whole host of people – the Scarlets; the coaches and the medical team there who have supported me through my recovery with patience and understanding.
“To the Blues and Dai Young who gave me my first professional contract. To all the players I have played with, and against, who have made my playing years such a blast. I walk away with fond memories that will stay with me forever. I wish that it had lasted longer but it was not to be. Sometimes these are the cards you are dealt in life.
“New challenges lie ahead of me now and I will embrace these with the commitment and dedication I have learnt over the years as a player.”
Pentyrch product Robinson began his senior career with Cardiff Blues at the age of 17, going on to make 50 appearances for them over four seasons.
His vibrant form earned him a Wales call-up and he responded with a thrilling try on his Test debut against the Barbarians in June 2012. He won two more caps on the 2013 summer tour of Japan, touching down once again.
In 2014, he joined the Scarlets and has appeared 30 times for them, ending up as their top finisher with nine tries in his debut season.
Scarlets general manager of rugby Jon Daniels, said: “It is with great sadness that we as a region have to confirm Harry’s retirement from rugby. He’s a talented young player who had a bright rugby future ahead of him.
“On behalf of the board and everyone here at the Scarlets I would like to wish him the very best in the future.”