Former Munster number eight James Coughlan has announced his retirement from rugby.
The 36 year old is currently playing for Pau after following former Munster coach Simon Mannix to France.
He released the following statement earlier today:
“After more than 10 years and over 200 matches with Munster Rugby & Section Paloise (Pau) I have decided to retire from professional rugby. I would like to thank everyone that has been involved in my career to date from the coaches at school, Dolphin, Munster to everyone at Pau.
"I had a fantastic eight years at Munster and I thank everyone involved with the province – not just the coaches but the backroom staff and everyone involved in the club and of course the fans who still have a special place in my heart. I took great pride in winning the Munster Player of the Year in 2011. As I said when I left, to play once would have been an honour, to do it for nearly 10 years was special.
"I also have thoroughly enjoyed my three seasons in Pau, joining them when they were in PROD2, winning promotion in my first season and leaving them as an established Top 14 side fighting for a Top 4 finish this season. Thank you to everyone involved with Section Paloise.
"Simon I would never have stepped outside the box of Munster had you not offered me the opportunity and for that I will be forever grateful.
Munster's James Coughlan tackled by Jonny Wilkinson of Toulon. Image: ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
"To my Mam and Dad I just want to say thanks for always being there for me. Starting from walking me to Old Christians on wet September mornings to Mam trying to learn French so she could chat up French men in Montpellier. I couldn't have done it without you. To all my family, brothers, sister, aunt, uncles and not forgetting Nana, thanks for your unwavering support.
"A special mention must go to my wife Katri also who has supported me throughout my career through the good times and the bad times both in Ireland and also in moving our young family over to France three years ago.
"I would also like to say a big thank you to my agent, Niall Woods of Navy Blue, who has guided & advised me on every decision since 2011 and has been a constant influence &
support to me.
Merci pour ces 3 belles saisons @corkmaninpau ! #allsection #findecarriere pic.twitter.com/0U5l3EbgJt
— Section Paloise (@SectionPaloise) April 28, 2017
"I'd just like to add finally that I didn't exactly take the direct route to professional rugby it was a very long and winding route but I always had belief that if I stayed true to myself, commit to it with everything that I had, I would achieve my dream and do the thing I loved the most for a living. It's been amazing and I'll cherish it forever. The page turns and the wheel will keep turning I just hope I left the odd mark along the way," he added.
Pau are currently in eight place in the Top 14 in France - one point off the play-off places.
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