Connacht’s all-time record try scorer Matt Healy has announced he will retire from rugby

Reflecting on his time at Connacht, he took to Instagram to say;

“It has been a privilege to call myself a professional rugby player for the past 10 years, but now is the time to go', he said.

“It was a different time when I arrived in Galway back in 2012 and I never dreamed of what Connacht could achieve.

The west of Ireland is an incredible part of the world, filled with special people who have captured the hearts of those closest to me over the years.

“I am immensely proud of the part I have played in giving them a progressive team of which they can be proud.

“My journey began at Lansdowne and I will always be grateful to those who encouraged me to follow this path. They know who they are.

151 appearances 🧢
58 tries 🏉
10 seasons 🟢

Our all-time top try scorer, an Irish international, and a PRO12 winner.

Thanks for everything Heals! 💚https://t.co/QvDqK2IEoM pic.twitter.com/TXoKsNpKM9

— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) May 3, 2022

“Their influence propelled me into a career that has exposed me to some of best and unique experiences this career can offer.

“Behind the scenes, my family have been an unbelievable support over the years. I’ll always cherish the moments we shared on the sidelines together.

“Whether it was celebrating famous wins in Edinburgh or in providing comfort after the losses too, they were always right there with me.

He also thanked his wife for the sacrifices made

“Above all, my wife Rachael has made immense sacrifices so that I could do what I do.

It is her commitment to being a good person, and a great mother to our girls that I will continue to admire.

“The last year hasn’t played out the way I would have hoped, but that’s how it goes sometimes.

Rugby can be ruthless. It was never going to last forever. But the memories will.”