Leinster second-row Charlie Ryan has been forced to retire from professional rugby due to a long standing and recurring knee injury.
The 23-year old had a glittering underage career which included playing for Leinster U-20's and captaining Leinster 'A' to their 2019 Celtic Cup Final win over Ulster 'A'.
Ryan also captained Ireland's Grand Slam winning U-20's side in 2019 and repeated the feat at that year's U-20's World Cup. Speaking to leinsterrugby.ie, Ryan said: "I finish my career deeply grateful to Leinster Rugby. Firstly, to Leo and the coaching staff for showing belief in me as a person and player despite my injury struggle."
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"The signing of a senior contract with my boyhood club was one of my proudest moments, there's nothing more the club could have done for me with respect to this injury.
"I leave the club at peace mentally due to the tireless work of the medical team. Every possible avenue to success was explored."
Ryan also acknowledged the help and support of his family throughout his short career, adding: "I could not have got to this point without the endless support from my family and friends. I am incredibly lucky to have had them there to help me. I wouldn't have got anywhere near where I am now if it was not for their selfless support of me in my pursuit of this dream."
Leinster head coach Leo Cullen commented on the news, saying: “Having had the pleasure of working with Charlie over recent seasons I am confident that Charlie will be a success with whatever he decides to do next as he is incredibly diligent, is able to build strong connections with people and is a great teammate to be around.
"I think I can speak on behalf of everyone here at Leinster Rugby in wishing Charlie every success for what he turns his attention to next."
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