Casey announces retirement

Bob Casey announced today that he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the season.

Over the past decade Casey has made 232 appearances for London Irish scoring six tries.

The Maynooth man captained the club between 2007 and 2011 including leading the team in its Heineken Cup semi-final with Toulouse in 2009 and the Premiership Final with Leicester Tigers in 2010.

The 33-year-old played for Ireland on seven occasions and led Ireland A in the Churchill Cup tournament in the United States in 2009.

He also played twice for the Barbarians.

Commenting on his decision, Casey expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he was given over his career and insisted that he will give his all in his remaining games as a London Irish player.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my rugby career both with Leinster and London Irish and have lots of great memories.

“I’ve been fortunate to play with many talented players and work with gifted coaches and would like to thank them and the medical staff that have looked after me so well.

“My special thanks must also go to all the supporters, business and individual, of London Irish in particular, for their exceptional welcome and encouragement over the past ten years.

“There are four key matches to play and I remain focussed and determined to do all that I can to help London Irish secure a place in next season’s Heineken Cup.”

London Irish Chief Executive Andy Martin praised the big lock for his dedication to the club over the past ten years.

“We cannot pay tribute enough to Bob. His commitment to the badge, the game and supporters is second to none.

“He has been an exceptional ambassador for London Irish and on behalf of everyone at the club I would like to thank him for his outstanding contribution over the last ten years.

“As captain he led the squad through some of its most successful years, always a role model and a prolific and tenacious performer. “

Upon his retirement from rugby Casey will take up a position as senior business development manager with Powerday plc, an environmental waste management company who are also London Irish’s principal sponsor.