HORGAN RETIRES

Shane Horgan has retired from Rugby with immediate effect due to a long term knee injury. Leinster confirmed the 33 year old’s retirement in a statement on Wednesday.

Horgan was a part of Ireland’s so called “golden generation” scoring 21 tries for his country in his 65 test appearances. He also boasts a set of three Lions appearances on the 2005 tour of New Zealand.

Having made his debut for Ireland in 2000 Horgan was a part of the Ireland side right up until his last appearance in 2009 against Wales Rugby team. He represented the province of Leinster throughout his senior career and made his final appearance for Leinster last May in a clash with their fierce rivals Munster in the Celtic League final. Leinster lost that encounter but in Horgan’s time in the side they won two Heineken Cup and two Celtic League titles.

Arguably the highlight of Horgan’s career was his dramatic late try which secured the Triple Crown for Ireland in the 2006 Six Nations. His was not a career that has been short of highlights. He represented his country at two World Cups and was a regular part of the Ireland set up for nine years. A point he is very proud of.

“I have been extremely fortunate to have played regularly for my province and with Ireland since my debut with Leinster in 1998”

“I know I have been very lucky to have had such a long and largely injury free career.”

Horgan will be remembered as a part of a great Ireland side and is held in high esteem throughout his country and in particular throughout Leinster. This is perhaps summed up by the fact that upon the presentation of the Heineken Cup trophy to Leinster captain Leo Cullen, Horgan, along with Gordon D’Arcy was invited up to collect the trophy alongside their captain on behalf of the team and the province.