CIARA GRIFFIN, the Irish Women's rugby captain will play her last game for her country this Saturday. Griffin will retire following Saturday’s Autumn Test against Japan at the RDS.
Griffin, who has been Ireland captain since 2018, will gain her 41st cap in the test.
📄 Ireland Captain Ciara Griffin has today announced her decision to retire from international rugby following Saturday's Autumn Test against Japan.
Full Details 👇#ThanksCiara | #IrishRugby— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) November 16, 2021
Griffin's leadership and qualities on the field made her a pillar for her country and also inspired a new generation of players.
Her passion and love for the green jersey have always been evident since making her test debut against the Welsh in the 2016 Women’s Six Nations. Her performances have not only given the country great moments, but also inspired her teammates to join her in creating Irish history.
Griffin had a few words to say about the decision"
“It has been a childhood dream to play for my country. Being afforded the opportunity to captain the National Team has been the highest honour. It has been an incredible journey filled with many highs and lows and I am very grateful for all the life skills I have developed through my involvement in High Performance sport.
“It is a decision I have not come to lightly and after discussing it with my family ahead of the Autumn Tests, it is now time for me to turn my focus to my life outside of rugby and begin a new chapter. I would like to thank everyone for their unwavering support, and I look forward to supporting the team going forward.”
Ireland Head Coach, Adam Griggs, commented:
“Ciara stood out to me right from our first training session as a genuine leader and someone that players respect and listen to. She wears her heart on her sleeve and it is that leadership style along with her passion and dedication to making people and the team better that has always been so effective.
“Ciara has led the way with her standards and what it takes to be a first class international, and I know in doing this she has inspired so many young players to take up rugby and try to emulate her own journey. Irish Rugby will miss her, and we wish her all the best in retirement and the next chapter of her life.”
Dublin , Ireland - 24 October 2020; Ciara Griffin of Ireland makes a break during the Women's Six Nations Rugby Championship (Photo By Brendan Moran/Sportsfile via Getty Images